John Sparks

As flood waters encircle Thailand’s capital of Bangkok, John Sparks observes the government’s change in tune.

I spoke to a senior government official. He told me that, “the situation is critical.” He had seen the data he said but said the government didn’t want release it for fear of “panicking people”. I think many here would rather be forewarned.

“Belak’s body was found last week in a Toronto condominium – the police said his death was not suspicious. He probably fought hundreds of times – but I don’t think he wanted to.”

Asia Correspondent John Sparks blogs on the online punch-up over his story on children’s boxing in Thailand.

As dozens die in violent clashes in Syria, John Sparks looks at why the deaths are now making international headlines.