Nyheter fra Bangkok One News
My RSS Feed
- Thailand Urged to Proceed Cautiously with Visa-Free Entry Scheme Revisions Amid Crime Concerns
Thailand Urged to Proceed Cautiously with Visa-Free Entry Scheme Revisions Amid Crime Concerns BANGKOK — Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has approved a review of Thailand’s visa-free entry policy, following increasing concerns over foreign tourists violating local laws, according to a statement from the Public Relations Department on April 27. The...
The post Thailand Urged to Proceed Cautiously with Visa-Free Entry Scheme Revisions Amid Crime Concerns appeared first on Bangkok One News.
Thailand Urged to Proceed Cautiously with Visa-Free Entry Scheme Revisions Amid Crime Concerns
BANGKOK — Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has approved a review of Thailand’s visa-free entry policy, following increasing concerns over foreign tourists violating local laws, according to a statement from the Public Relations Department on April 27.
The current visa-exemption scheme allows citizens from 93 countries and territories to enter Thailand for tourism or urgent work for up to 60 days, with a possible 30-day extension. However, a surge in reports of foreign nationals overstaying visas, working illegally, committing theft, and engaging in more serious crimes has prompted authorities to reassess the program.
The tipping point came after the shocking arrest of a Chinese national, Fu Tongyuan, accused of brutally murdering a 25-year-old Thai transgender woman in Pattaya on April 26. The suspect was apprehended at Suvarnabhumi Airport while attempting to flee, bearing visible scratch wounds and reportedly unable to pass through the automated immigration gate. He later confessed to the murder, though evidence suggests it was premeditated.
This incident has reignited debate over the risks of a loosely monitored visa policy. Critics argue that the open-door approach, intended to boost tourism, has inadvertently created opportunities for criminal elements to enter the country undetected—many of whom have no prior criminal records.
From May 1, the government will implement a new digital arrival card system, replacing the TM6 paper form. The Thai Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) is expected to streamline immigration, health, visa, and customs procedures. However, officials have yet to confirm whether the system will assist in criminal background checks or improve the screening of incoming travelers.
Authorities emphasize that while changes to the visa-free program are necessary, they must be carefully considered, inclusive, and fair. Experts warn against hasty policy shifts that could confuse travelers and damage Thailand’s reputation as a tourist-friendly destination.
Stakeholders from the tourism sector, immigration authorities, and law enforcement are expected to be consulted before any major revisions are finalized. A public hearing has also been suggested to ensure transparency and accountability.
Officials reiterated that revisions should not disproportionately target or discriminate against any specific nationality, and that long-term policy stability is critical to maintaining global confidence in Thailand’s travel environment.
The post Thailand Urged to Proceed Cautiously with Visa-Free Entry Scheme Revisions Amid Crime Concerns appeared first on Bangkok One News.
29 April 29 2025Bangkok Newshttps://bangkokone.news/?p=206767 - Thai Woman, 70, Arrested for Brother’s Murder After 10-Year Flight Over Inheritance Dispute
Thai Woman, 70, Arrested for Brother’s Murder After 10-Year Flight Over Inheritance Dispute RAYONG – A 70-year-old woman has been arrested in Rayong province for the murder of her younger brother more than a decade ago, following a long-standing family feud over a land inheritance. The suspect, identified as Tawai,...
The post Thai Woman, 70, Arrested for Brother’s Murder After 10-Year Flight Over Inheritance Dispute appeared first on Bangkok One News.
Thai Woman, 70, Arrested for Brother’s Murder After 10-Year Flight Over Inheritance Dispute
RAYONG – A 70-year-old woman has been arrested in Rayong province for the murder of her younger brother more than a decade ago, following a long-standing family feud over a land inheritance.
The suspect, identified as Tawai, allegedly killed her brother—referred to as “A”—at their family home in Wang Sai, Khlong Khlung district, Kamphaeng Phet province in 2012. Police say the dispute had been brewing for years and culminated in a deadly altercation.
According to investigators, Tawai used a knife to fatally stab her brother during a heated confrontation. After the incident, she fled and managed to evade arrest for over 10 years by hiding out in Rayong province.
Following her recent capture, Tawai confessed to the crime but claimed she acted in self-defence. She told police that her brother, allegedly drunk and armed with a knife, burst into a room where she and her husband had taken refuge. She said he began strangling her, prompting her to grab the knife from his waist and strike him in the neck.
Tawai expressed deep regret over the incident and said she never intended for their family dispute to end in tragedy. She has been taken to Kamphaeng Phet provincial court to face legal proceedings.
In a similar case, authorities in Surat Thani are investigating an incident in which a man assaulted his mother during an argument over inheritance. The mother later posted videos online showing her son attacking her outside their home, claiming he was angry about her handling of family assets following his father’s death.
The post Thai Woman, 70, Arrested for Brother’s Murder After 10-Year Flight Over Inheritance Dispute appeared first on Bangkok One News.
29 April 29 2025Bangkok Newshttps://bangkokone.news/?p=206764 - Cross-Border Flooding Hits Mae Sai and Tachilek After Sai River Overflows
Cross-Border Flooding Hits Mae Sai and Tachilek After Sai River Overflows CHIANG RAI, Thailand – Heavy rainfall upstream in Myanmar caused the Sai River to overflow its banks, resulting in significant flooding across border areas in Thailand’s Mae Sai district and Myanmar’s Tachilek town. The floodwaters impacted both local communities...
The post Cross-Border Flooding Hits Mae Sai and Tachilek After Sai River Overflows appeared first on Bangkok One News.
Cross-Border Flooding Hits Mae Sai and Tachilek After Sai River Overflows
CHIANG RAI, Thailand – Heavy rainfall upstream in Myanmar caused the Sai River to overflow its banks, resulting in significant flooding across border areas in Thailand’s Mae Sai district and Myanmar’s Tachilek town. The floodwaters impacted both local communities and businesses, exposing vulnerabilities in the region’s infrastructure during the early stages of a joint river management project.
On Monday, runoff from persistent rain in Myanmar surged into the Sai River, flooding low-lying Thai communities such as Koh Sai and Mai Lung Khon in Mae Sai, as well as bustling markets in Tachilek including Sai Lom Joy and Ta Lor.
The flooding occurred while Thailand and Myanmar are undertaking a joint riverbank protection and dredging project along the Sai and Ruak rivers. The 20-kilometre-long initiative, which spans both nations, aims to strengthen flood defences and improve water flow. However, the temporary removal of old floodwalls and sandbags for construction may have left communities exposed to this unexpected inundation.
Despite efforts to contain the water using temporary flood walls, strong currents caused them to collapse, leading to further inundation of residential areas and market zones. Authorities responded swiftly to install additional sandbags and assist affected residents.
The incident highlights the need for closer cross-border coordination and readiness during transitional phases of infrastructure projects. Both Thai and Myanmar officials have pledged to reinforce protective measures while continuing with long-term solutions.
The post Cross-Border Flooding Hits Mae Sai and Tachilek After Sai River Overflows appeared first on Bangkok One News.
29 April 29 2025Bangkok Newshttps://bangkokone.news/?p=206761 - Cabinet to Review Third Phase of 10,000-Baht Handout Scheme
Cabinet to Review Third Phase of 10,000-Baht Handout Scheme BANGKOK — The Thai cabinet will review the third phase of the government’s 10,000-baht digital wallet handout next week, with implementation set for May–June, according to Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat. This phase targets 2.7 million young people aged 16–20, following...
The post Cabinet to Review Third Phase of 10,000-Baht Handout Scheme appeared first on Bangkok One News.
Cabinet to Review Third Phase of 10,000-Baht Handout Scheme
BANGKOK — The Thai cabinet will review the third phase of the government’s 10,000-baht digital wallet handout next week, with implementation set for May–June, according to Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat.
This phase targets 2.7 million young people aged 16–20, following earlier distributions to welfare cardholders, people with disabilities, and seniors over 60. Funds will be transferred via PromptPay, and system integration with financial institutions is reportedly on track.
Critics have questioned the programme’s impact, saying it has not significantly boosted consumption. Last week, a complaint was filed with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) over the reallocation of 35 billion baht from the 2025 fiscal budget, originally set for debt repayment.
Julapun defended the move, asserting that it followed legal budgetary procedures and that public debt payments remain unaffected. He welcomed scrutiny and said the government awaits a Constitutional Court ruling.
On broader economic issues, Julapun commented on the World Bank’s revised GDP forecast—now at 1.6%, down from 2.6%—citing US trade policies and ongoing tariff negotiations as key uncertainties.
The post Cabinet to Review Third Phase of 10,000-Baht Handout Scheme appeared first on Bangkok One News.
29 April 29 2025Bangkok Newshttps://bangkokone.news/?p=206758 - Madame K Bangkok Grand Opening – Fire, Cocktails, Style
Bangkok’s nightlife scene is about to officially welcome an exciting new addition. Following a highly successful soft opening—driven by the great warmth, longstanding success, and deep commitment of Gavin and Khae—Madame K Bangkok is preparing for its grand opening on Saturday, May 3rd. Their return to the concrete jungle many...
The post Madame K Bangkok Grand Opening – Fire, Cocktails, Style appeared first on Bangkok One News.
Bangkok’s nightlife scene is about to officially welcome an exciting new addition. Following a highly successful soft opening—driven by the great warmth, longstanding success, and deep commitment of Gavin and Khae—Madame K Bangkok is preparing for its grand opening on Saturday, May 3rd.
Their return to the concrete jungle many of us call home was met with overwhelming excitement and support, a reflection not just of their reputation in the industry, but of the way they treat everyone who walks through their doors—not simply as customers, but as great friends and extended family.
The official launch promises a night packed with live entertainment, bold cuisine, and signature cocktails, reaffirming Madame K’s place at the heart of Bangkok’s vibrant dining and nightlife scene.
You’re Invited
You’re invited to the Grand Opening of Madame K Bangkok!
Join us for a Crazy Rich Asians-themed evening full of bold flavours, cool cocktails, and a touch of drama.
Dress to impress—sequins, silk, power suits or pearls are all welcome.
This is a night for all the familiar faces, the new friends, and everyone who’s ready to celebrate in true Bangkok style.
Doors open at 7PM and the night will continue until late, so get ready for a truly memorable evening.
Early arrival is strongly recommended, as capacity will be limited.Night to Remember
Guests will receive their first drink complimentary, choosing from a special menu of cocktails:
Aromatherapie Negroni
Four Tiki Faces
Rebel Brand Base DrinkPlease note: Dinner service will not be available on opening night due to the expected high turnout and standing-room-only atmosphere. In place of a full dinner, bold canapés from the Madame K menu will be served between 7PM and 9PM.
Throughout the night, food and beverage specials and shot rounds will keep the atmosphere lively.
Justin Mills, known for his talent and presence, will be adding to the lineup of entertainment, ensuring a dynamic atmosphere as the night unfolds.
And as the night reaches its peak, the father-and-son duo Gordon Koh and Gavin Koh will turn up the heat with their unforgettable fire show—an unmissable highlight of the evening that will have the crowd on the edge of their seats.
In addition to the fire show, two additional great DJ’s; DJ Daisy and DJ Icecreamz will be lined up to keep the energy high, spinning tracks that will keep the crowd dancing throughout the night.
Star Power Behind the Bar
The bar at Madame K will be in good hands with:
- Francesco Moretti, Bangkok’s most handsome and charming mixologist, known for bringing his signature flair and charisma to any evening,
- Pai, the charismatic playboy who keeps the energy high,
- Usman, the shy but not-so-shy talent behind the bar.
Together, they promise an atmosphere that perfectly captures the energy and spirit of Madame K Bangkok.
Table & Bar Seating
Table seating and reserved bar seating are highly recommended for those who wish to secure the best spots for the evening. With a packed venue expected, early reservations will ensure a more comfortable experience, especially for those looking to enjoy the full range of cocktails, canapés, and live entertainment.
You’re Invited
You’re invited to the Grand Opening of Madame K Bangkok!
Join us for a Crazy Rich Asians-themed evening full of bold flavours, cool cocktails, and a touch of drama.
Dress to impress—sequins, silk, power suits or pearls are all welcome.
This is a night for all the familiar faces, the new friends, and everyone who’s ready to celebrate in true Bangkok style.
Doors open at 7PM and the night will continue until late, so get ready for a truly memorable evening.
Early arrival is strongly recommended, as capacity will be limited.Contact Information
Address: Madame K Bangkok Map
125 Soi Rammaitri Mitrichit Road Pomprap subdistrict Pomprap Sattruphai, Bangkok, Bangkok, Thailand, Bangkok
Normal opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Reservations: +66(0)-83-262-6142
Email: covetarts@gmail.com
Follow them on Facebook: Madame K Bangkok
Check out our other life style articles: https://bangkokone.news/category/lifestyle/The post Madame K Bangkok Grand Opening – Fire, Cocktails, Style appeared first on Bangkok One News.
29 April 29 2025Bangkok Newshttps://bangkokone.news/?p=206733 - Major Corruption Scandal Uncovered at Bangkok Metropolitan Administration
Major Corruption Scandal Uncovered at Bangkok Metropolitan Administration Police General Adisorn Ngamjitsuksrisuk, advisor to the Governor of Bangkok, revealed details of a major corruption case involving the embezzlement of over 2.7 million baht intended for the repair of large buses under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). The case came to...
The post Major Corruption Scandal Uncovered at Bangkok Metropolitan Administration appeared first on Bangkok One News.
Major Corruption Scandal Uncovered at Bangkok Metropolitan Administration
Police General Adisorn Ngamjitsuksrisuk, advisor to the Governor of Bangkok, revealed details of a major corruption case involving the embezzlement of over 2.7 million baht intended for the repair of large buses under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA).
The case came to light after the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) uncovered irregularities in the disbursement of repair budgets between 2022 and 2024. Investigators found that 28 fraudulent contracts were created, falsely claiming that buses had been repaired when no work was actually carried out.
The perpetrators reportedly fabricated fake documents, including price quotes from nonexistent repair shops, to secure budget approvals. This led to a joint investigation by the OAG, the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), and partner agencies.
On March 12, 2025, authorities arrested seven staff members from the BMA’s Sports Division in connection with the scheme.
Today, April 28, Pol. Gen. Adisorn confirmed that those officials have been temporarily reassigned to non-operational roles pending disciplinary and criminal proceedings. He stressed that the BMA fully cooperated with law enforcement and provided all necessary evidence.
Additionally, Pol. Gen. Adisorn disclosed that the BMA has uncovered 12 separate corruption cases involving its staff:
- 9 cases were supported with evidence handed over to law enforcement.
- 3 cases were self-initiated following internal tips.
The BMA is now implementing legal and investigative training programs for its disciplinary and administrative staff to boost their investigative skills to a level comparable with police forces.
This is part of the BMA’s ongoing reforms aimed at promoting greater transparency and eradicating corruption, reported The Standard.
The post Major Corruption Scandal Uncovered at Bangkok Metropolitan Administration appeared first on Bangkok One News.
28 April 28 2025Bangkok Newshttps://bangkokone.news/?p=206726 - Foreign Instagrammer Slammed for Breaking Into Bangkok’s Ghost Tower
Foreign Instagrammer Slammed for Breaking Into Bangkok’s Ghost Tower A foreign Instagrammer and his companion are facing heavy backlash from Thai and international netizens after posting a video of themselves illegally breaking into and climbing the famous Sathorn Unique Tower, Bangkok’s notorious “Ghost Tower.” Instagram user @ryan_rrobertson shared footage showing...
The post Foreign Instagrammer Slammed for Breaking Into Bangkok’s Ghost Tower appeared first on Bangkok One News.
Foreign Instagrammer Slammed for Breaking Into Bangkok’s Ghost Tower
A foreign Instagrammer and his companion are facing heavy backlash from Thai and international netizens after posting a video of themselves illegally breaking into and climbing the famous Sathorn Unique Tower, Bangkok’s notorious “Ghost Tower.”
Instagram user @ryan_rrobertson shared footage showing him and a friend climbing multiple skyscrapers around the world. In his latest post, they are seen at the top of the abandoned Sathorn Unique Tower, offering dramatic views of the Chao Phraya River and Bangkok’s skyline.
The Sathorn Unique Tower, an unfinished skyscraper in the Sathorn district, gained an eerie reputation after the discovery of a Swedish tourist’s body inside the building in 2014. Although abandoned, the property is privately owned, making any unauthorized entry illegal.
In the controversial video, Robertson used a metal-cutting tool to break a lock and gain entry. He and his friend then filmed themselves walking, sitting, and standing dangerously close to the crumbling edges of the rooftop.
Robertson captioned the video:
“POV: You’re the first person to climb Bangkok’s Ghost Tower in 5+ years…”The video quickly attracted nearly 1,000 likes but also strong criticism.
While a few admired their adventurousness, the majority condemned their actions for violating the law and disregarding safety. Comments included:- “Reported to Thai police. Enjoy jail.”
- “Hope it’s your last trip there.”
- “This is a restricted area under court proceedings. How did you get in?”
- “It’s still owned by a private family. You show total pride and disrespect.”
Several users also disputed the claim of being the “first” in over five years, pointing out that other explorers had recently visited the site.
As of now, the incident has not yet drawn official attention from Thai media, authorities, or the building’s owner, Rangsan Torsuwan.
The post Foreign Instagrammer Slammed for Breaking Into Bangkok’s Ghost Tower appeared first on Bangkok One News.
28 April 28 2025Bangkok Newshttps://bangkokone.news/?p=206723 - Mobile Users Urged to Prepare for Disaster Alert System Test
Mobile Users Urged to Prepare for Disaster Alert System Test Following the recent 8.2-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar that severely impacted Thailand, the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CIB) is urging mobile users to prepare for an upcoming public disaster alert system test via SMS. The CIB advises users to activate their...
The post Mobile Users Urged to Prepare for Disaster Alert System Test appeared first on Bangkok One News.
Mobile Users Urged to Prepare for Disaster Alert System Test
Following the recent 8.2-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar that severely impacted Thailand, the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CIB) is urging mobile users to prepare for an upcoming public disaster alert system test via SMS.
The CIB advises users to activate their cell broadcast services to ensure they receive emergency alerts during the tests scheduled for May 2, 7, and 13, 2025, each starting at 1 PM.
How to Set Up Your Device:
- iOS Users (iOS 18 or later, iPhone X and newer):
- Go to Settings > General > About. A pop-up will appear for an update — tap Agree.
- Return to Settings > Notifications. Scroll to TH-ALERT and enable Amber Alerts and Emergency Alerts.
- Android Users (Android 12 or higher):
- Go to Settings > Safety and Emergency > Earthquake Alerts and allow notifications.
Test Schedule:
- Small-Scale Test (Indoor, at 5 locations):
- Chiang Rai, Ubon Ratchathani, Suphan Buri, Songkhla Provincial Halls, and the Government Complex in Bangkok.
- Medium-Scale Test (District Level):
- Mueang Districts of Lampang, Nakhon Sawan, Nakhon Ratchasima, Surat Thani, and Din Daeng District in Bangkok.
- Large-Scale Test (Province-Wide):
- Chiang Mai, Udon Thani, Ayutthaya, Nakhon Si Thammarat, and Bangkok.
Residents in these areas will receive test alerts featuring sound and on-screen notifications.
Important Warning: The CIB cautions the public against falling for scams by fake officials. Do not click suspicious links or share personal information.
The post Mobile Users Urged to Prepare for Disaster Alert System Test appeared first on Bangkok One News.
28 April 28 2025Bangkok Newshttps://bangkokone.news/?p=206720 - iOS Users (iOS 18 or later, iPhone X and newer):
- Volunteer Killed After Battling Chiang Mai Wildfires
Volunteer Killed After Battling Chiang Mai Wildfires Tragedy struck in Chiang Mai when Manit Sawansu, 62, a volunteer ranger with the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, died in a motorcycle accident after a long day fighting wildfires in Khun Khan National Park. Manit and 25 others had...
The post Volunteer Killed After Battling Chiang Mai Wildfires appeared first on Bangkok One News.
Volunteer Killed After Battling Chiang Mai Wildfires
Tragedy struck in Chiang Mai when Manit Sawansu, 62, a volunteer ranger with the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, died in a motorcycle accident after a long day fighting wildfires in Khun Khan National Park.
Manit and 25 others had been battling fires near Kong Khak Luang village in Samoeng Tai from 1:30 PM to about 8 PM on Sunday. His body and motorcycle were discovered around 8:30 PM, having veered two meters off a hill road, according to park chief Thaweewat Daengmanee.
Officials believe exhaustion from the day’s hard labor may have contributed to the fatal accident. His body was sent to Samoeng Hospital for a postmortem examination.
“This is yet another loss, a person who gave his life to help save the country’s natural resources,” Mr. Thaweewat said.
A picture taken on Sunday shows volunteer Manit Sawansu, on the right in the red circle, with other members of his firefighting team. He died a few hours later. (Photo: Panumate Tanraksa)
The post Volunteer Killed After Battling Chiang Mai Wildfires appeared first on Bangkok One News.
28 April 28 2025Bangkok Newshttps://bangkokone.news/?p=206716 - Corruption Watchdog Asked to Probe Thailand’s Digital Wallet Scheme
Corruption Watchdog Asked to Probe Thailand’s Digital Wallet Scheme THAILAND — A group of political activists filed a complaint with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) today, urging an investigation into the former Srettha Thavisin Cabinet, the current administration, and legislators over their approval of the controversial digital wallet program. The...
The post Corruption Watchdog Asked to Probe Thailand’s Digital Wallet Scheme appeared first on Bangkok One News.
Corruption Watchdog Asked to Probe Thailand’s Digital Wallet Scheme
THAILAND — A group of political activists filed a complaint with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) today, urging an investigation into the former Srettha Thavisin Cabinet, the current administration, and legislators over their approval of the controversial digital wallet program.
The activists argue that diverting funds previously allocated for other purposes to finance the populist digital wallet initiative could violate Section 144 of the Constitution and Section 88 of the anti-corruption law.
Former Democrat MP Charnchai Isarasenarak pointed out that while the 2025 fiscal budget bill passed its first reading in Parliament, the Cabinet later decided to reallocate 35 billion baht from public debt repayments to support the digital wallet scheme instead.
Jade Donavanik, a former constitutional drafter, noted that if evidence supports allegations of constitutional breaches by former Prime Minister Srettha, his Cabinet, the current Cabinet, MPs, and senators, the NACC should escalate the case to the Constitutional Court for review.
Acknowledging the complexity of the case, former senator Somchai Sawangkarn said that although it presents new legal territory, the NACC has a duty to determine whether the actions of the two administrations and lawmakers were lawful.
The NACC has yet to announce whether it will open a formal investigation.
The post Corruption Watchdog Asked to Probe Thailand’s Digital Wallet Scheme appeared first on Bangkok One News.
27 April 27 2025Bangkok Newshttps://bangkokone.news/?p=206710