Japan toughens virus measures with new law

13 Sept 13:58 Key points summarised by AI

Japan enacted a new law to strengthen enforcement of COVID-19 restrictions, introducing fines for non-compliance.
The legislation allows authorities to fine bars and restaurants up to 300,000 yen for defying early closure requests.
Individuals testing positive for COVID-19 and refusing hospitalisation can face fines up to 500,000 yen, though plans for prison sentences were scrapped.
This new enforcement mechanism comes as Tokyo extends its state of emergency amidst a surge in infections, six months before the Summer Olympics.

Six injured after car smashes into On Nut shopping mall

Yesterday 22:44 Key points summarised by AI

A 67-year-old woman drove her car through the glass frontage of a Bangkok shopping mall, injuring six people, including a six-year-old girl.
The driver claimed she accidentally pressed the accelerator instead of the brake after being startled, causing the vehicle to surge forward.
She apologized to the victims, promising insurance coverage and additional financial aid, while police continue to gather statements before filing charges.