Northern Thailand Hit by Two Minor Earthquakes

An autopsy confirmed that a zookeeper killed in a lion attack at Safari World suffered a broken neck, torn windpipe, and a severe thigh wound that caused fatal blood loss. The 58-year-old victim, Jian, also sustained broken ribs and a fractured collarbone during the mauling by multiple lions. Contrary to social media speculation, his organs remained intact and were not consumed by the animals. The attack occurred after he exited a protective vehicle and turned his back to the lions, allowing one to pounce from behind. Blood tests for alcohol, narcotics, and medications are pending, with results expected within three days.

Thailand plans to reopen border checkpoints in Chanthaburi and Trat, categorizing the area as low-tension despite ongoing disputes with Cambodia. Local residents in Buri Ram’s border villages oppose the move, citing distrust toward Cambodian authorities and unresolved sovereignty conflicts. They argue that Cambodia must first demonstrate sincerity in honoring agreements before any reopening proceeds. Some vendors, however, support reopening to revive their livelihoods, as border closures have severely reduced their daily earnings. The government continues to assess the situation amid divided local perspectives and ongoing tensions in higher-conflict zones.

Thailand has officially ended its decades-old ban on afternoon alcohol sales, a rule that prohibited restaurants from selling alcohol between 2pm and 5pm since 1972. The move is celebrated by business owners and tourism leaders as a critical step to boost revenue and align with international traveler expectations. Restaurants anticipate a 20-25% increase in sales, as afternoon dining and drinking are peak times for tourists. The change is expected to benefit not only restaurants but also suppliers, snack producers, and broader hospitality sectors. This policy shift aims to enhance Thailand’s competitiveness as a top global tourism destination while addressing outdated regulations.

Thailand’s new Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is advancing a three-pillar economic plan prioritizing affordable transit, including a flagship 20-baht flat metro fare policy to reduce living costs. Private operators like BEM and BTS support the initiative, noting rising passenger numbers and revenue stability despite the subsidy. The policy, already piloted on Purple and Red Lines, aims to ease commuter burdens through public-private collaboration. Technological upgrades—including EMV payments and biometric scans—are being rolled out to streamline the fare system. Registration via the “Thang Rath” app is underway, reflecting broad government efforts to tackle household debt and boost grassroots income.

Thailand's Department of Corrections is considering assigning former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to teach languages in prison following his one-year sentence. He is currently completing a five-day quarantine period alongside other elderly inmates and is reported to be in normal physical and mental health. Thaksin has not made special requests and is adhering to routine prison conditions, including a simple diet of boiled eggs and coffee. Only a pre-approved list of up to 10 family members will be permitted visits, with lawyers scheduled to meet him after quarantine. The initiative aims to utilize inmates’ skills for rehabilitation and prison activities.

A reckless foreign tourist ignored red flag warnings at Karon Beach in Phuket and was dragged out to sea by powerful monsoon waves, prompting a frantic rescue effort. Lifeguards reacted swiftly, pulling the struggling man to safety just moments before a potential tragedy. The tourist, exhausted and choking on seawater, received immediate treatment and was released afterward. Officials reiterated that red flags signal a strict swimming ban, not a suggestion, especially during monsoon season. The incident has renewed calls for stronger safety awareness campaigns targeting international visitors who often underestimate Phuket’s deadly currents.

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A new study reveals that one in three Thai teenagers has encountered sexual content online, including nude images, adult pornography, and AI-generated deepfakes. Conducted across seven northern provinces, the research found that nearly half of youths share such material for likes, financial gain, or validation, while others are coerced. Despite awareness of risks, 56% acknowledge the ease of distributing explicit content without considering consequences. The report underscores a disconnect between youth and parental perceptions of digital dangers. Experts urge constructive guidance over shaming to address this growing threat to Thailand’s youth.

Transport Co Ltd has begun trial express bus services from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and Phuket, reducing travel time by limiting stops and offering onboard meals. The Bangkok-Chiang Mai route now takes 9.5 hours instead of 11, while the Bangkok-Phuket journey is shortened to 12 hours from 13. Fares are set at 594 baht for Chiang Mai and 1,112 baht for Phuket, with two daily round trips available. The trial will run until March 8, aiming to provide faster and more convenient travel options. These express services depart from Bangkok’s Mo Chit Terminal and return from provincial terminals in the evening.

Chai Nat province has declared an emergency as the Chao Phraya River surged to critical levels, forcing authorities to implement water retention measures to prevent downstream flooding. Residents in three riverside districts were urged to relocate belongings and avoid electrical hazards amid rising flood risks. Simultaneously, the Department of Mineral Resources issued a two-day alert for flash floods and landslides across 21 provinces, citing heavy rainfall exceeding 100mm. High-risk areas include northern, central, eastern, and southern regions, with vulnerable communities advised to evacuate and monitor official updates. Precautionary measures emphasize early relocation, 24-hour vigilance, and emergency preparedness to mitigate disaster impacts.

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