Phuket Jewish New Year scaled back amid protest concerns

10 Sept 15:32 Key points summarised by AI

Phuket's Jewish New Year celebration was significantly scaled back, reducing venues from two to one (Chabad Patong) and shortening its duration from midnight to 9 pm, due to warnings of potential protests.
The number of expected participants for the event was cut from 2,000 to 700, as authorities advised organizers to revise plans to mitigate confrontation risks from Thai protest groups.
Security measures are being implemented with police deployment around the venue and protest areas, while authorities also investigate the business networks linked to Jewish communities and Israeli tourism in Thailand for legal compliance.

Big clean-up begins in Phuket after floods and mudslides

Yesterday 17:27 Key points summarised by AI

Phuket authorities mobilized emergency teams following flash floods and mudslides in Patong, with continued heavy rain raising concerns.
Mud and debris from hills blocked key roads like Soi Nanai 5 and 8, prompting the deployment of excavators and heavy machinery for clearance.
Officials established an assistance center and three temporary shelters, with teams helping residents move belongings and clear properties.
The Phuket Red Cross and Provincial Interior Ministry's Housewives Club prepared 300 meal sets for affected individuals and emergency personnel.
Provincial authorities committed to ongoing assistance, monitoring, and restoration efforts, prioritizing the safety of residents and workers.