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Motorcycle taxi drivers brutally beating tourist caught on video Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV In a distressing incident at Phuket, three motorcycle taxi drivers were captured on video brutally beating a tourist until he lost consciousness. The attack occurred in the early hours around 3 a.m. outside Central Patong, a popular shopping area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332947-motorcycle-taxi-drivers-brutally-beating-tourist-caught-on-video/

In a distressing incident at Phuket, three motorcycle taxi drivers were captured on video brutally beating a tourist until he lost consciousness. The attack occurred in the early hours around 3 a.m. outside Central Patong, a popular shopping area. The violent episode was documented in a 20-second clip shared by Phuket Information Center, stirring outrage and concern among locals and visitors alike. The footage clearly shows three individuals, identified as local motorcycle taxi drivers, aggressively attacking a male tourist. Kicks and punches were dealt, rendering the tourist unconscious by the roadside. The situation momentarily de-escalated when another male tourist attempted to intervene, only for the attackers to walk away when a female tourist also approached the scene to assist the injured man. Social media users have expressed vehement criticism towards the attackers, highlighting fears about safety, the potential impact on the tourism industry, and the apparent disregard for law and public image during a critical time for Phuket's recovery amidst COVID-19. Many are calling for immediate action to address the worsening perception of safety in the popular tourist destination. The incident raises significant concerns about the enforcement of regulations governing motorcycle taxi operations and the measures in place to ensure tourist safety. Urgent calls for a thorough investigation and suitable disciplinary actions against the perpetrators are dominating discussions, as both locals and tourists demand reassurances that such violence won't be tolerated. This event not only spotlights the need for stricter oversight of informal transport services but also puts pressure on local authorities to restore confidence in Phuket's tourism sector, ensuring such brutal assaults don't recur and tarnish the island's reputation further. Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV -- 2024-07-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

British cryptocurrency trader assaulted and robbed in Bangkok by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Five foreign nationals have been arrested for allegedly robbing and assaulting a British cryptocurrency trader in Bangkok, tying him up and inflicting serious injuries. The suspects deny the charges and have requested to give their testimony in court. Police Colonel Wachirakorn Wongboon from Khlong Tan Police Station yesterday, July 14, led a team to apprehend five suspects involved in the robbery of the British trader. The suspects include Abdullahi Ahmed Saney Mohamed from Denmark, Shafiq Sumya and Ahmed Saeed Yasin from England, Hussein Mohamed Hassan Sheekh from England, and an unidentified foreign woman. Seized items included two Apple iPhones, luxury watches from Audemars Piguet and Rolex, one ADCD credit card, and 24,000 baht in cash. The total value of the seized items exceeds 3 million baht, believed to have been stolen from the British man. The incident occurred previously on July 12 around 4.50am when the victim joined the five suspects, three men and two women, at a mansion in Phra Khanong, Khlong Toei District, Bangkok. The victim was then threatened, physically assaulted with punches and a stun gun, and tied up with ropes and tape. Police investigated and identified the suspects, leading to their arrest along with the seized items. During the interrogation, the suspects denied the allegations and opted to present their case in court. Investigations revealed that the suspects were unemployed and had committed the crime for the first time. The initial charges filed include armed robbery, causing bodily or mental harm, coercion involving five or more people using weapons to force someone to act, refrain from acting, or comply due to fear of danger to life, body, liberty, reputation, or property. Additional charges involve unlawful detention, armed extortion, misappropriation of documents, and carrying weapons in public without a valid reason. The suspects were handed over to the investigators for further legal proceedings, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai PM Strettha wishes Donald Trump speedy recovery amid assassination attempt Picture courtesy: Pattaya News In a tumultuous event that shook global politics, former U.S. President Donald Trump narrowly escaped an assassination attempt during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has expressed his concern and sympathy, wishing Trump a speedy recovery. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332945-thai-pm-strettha-wishes-donals-trump-speedy-recovery-amid-assassination-attempt/

In a tumultuous event that shook global politics, former U.S. President Donald Trump narrowly escaped an assassination attempt during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has expressed his concern and sympathy, wishing Trump a speedy recovery. The incident, occurring on July 14, saw an unidentified assailant open fire while Trump addressed his supporters. The Secret Service acted promptly, neutralizing the threat, but not before Trump suffered a minor injury. A brief hospital visit confirmed the former president sustained a superficial wound to his right ear, and he was released shortly thereafter. Apart from Trump's injury, there were other casualties. Reports confirm the death of an attendee, Corey Comparatore, who was hailed as a hero for his attempt to shield others, including his family, during the shootout. Additionally, two individuals were seriously injured and are currently receiving medical care. In response to this violent act, PM Srettha issued a statement on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), articulating his shock and condemning the violence. "Violence has no place in our societies, and it is with heavy hearts that we learn of such events. Our thoughts are with the injured and the bereaved families. We hope for a fast recovery for Mr. Trump," stated Srettha. Srettha's stance on peace and security stands in stark contrast to the rising incidence of political violence globally, highlighting concerns over public figures' safety. Meanwhile, the Thai government officials have been in constant communication with international counterparts, monitoring the situation while reinforcing domestic security measures to prevent similar incidents, reported The Pattaya News. The FBI is currently investigating the attack, which has officially been classified as an assassination attempt. Further details are expected as their investigation progresses, providing insights into the motives behind this attempted attack on a major public figure in the political arena. Picture courtesy: Pattaya News -- 2024-07-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Sa Kaeo police arrest four in 5 million baht gambling bust by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Sa Kaeo have arrested four individuals linked to a major online gambling operation, which included betting on Euro football matches. The operation involved a large number of participants and had a cash flow of 5 million baht (US$ 138,000). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332944-sa-kaeo-police-arrest-four-in-5-million-baht-gambling-bust/

Police in Sa Kaeo have arrested four individuals linked to a major online gambling operation, which included betting on Euro football matches. The operation involved a large number of participants and had a cash flow of 5 million baht (US$ 138,000). Police, led by Deputy Commissioner of Region 2, Ittiporn Photong, and Deputy Director of Region 2’s Operations Centre, ordered the raid. The operation was executed by Om Sin Boonyanuson, Sa Kaeo Provincial Police Chief, alongside other officers. Armed with a search warrant issued yesterday, officers conducted a raid on a house at 354/72 in Sa Kaeo City. The raid resulted in the arrest of four suspects. These include 29 year old Chinawat from Trat Province; 24 year old Chompunut from Phetchabun Province; 29 year old Thoskamon, also from Trat Province; and 24 year old Panupong, from Buriram Province. The suspects were reportedly involved in facilitating online gambling activities, specifically focusing on Euro football betting. Police seized a significant amount of evidence during the raid. Confiscated items included three computer sets, four mobile phones, a Huawei WiFi router, and numerous other related items, totaling 19 pieces of evidence. These items were crucial to the operation of the gambling network. The four suspects faced charges of organising illegal gambling activities via electronic media, covering a range of games such as international football, baccarat, slots, lottery, and poker. They were also charged with promoting and advertising gambling, both directly and indirectly, without proper authorization under the Gambling Act, reported KhaoSod. Following their arrest, the suspects and the confiscated items were taken to Sa Kaeo City Police Station for further investigation and formal booking. The police plan to extend their investigation to identify and apprehend larger networks involved in the illegal gambling operation. In related news, police have shut down over 200 websites involved in Euro 2024 football-related gambling, with 2.4 billion baht in circulation, according to the police. Police released the information following a crackdown on both online and offline gambling activities as the Euro 2024 football matches concluded on July 13. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Buriram man killed by friend in liquor dispute, community in shock by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A man was fatally assaulted by his friend after an argument over buying liquor in Buriram Province, leaving the community in shock. The incident occurred yesterday in the village of Kradon, Huai Rat District. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332943-buriram-man-killed-by-friend-in-liquor-dispute-community-in-shock/

A man was fatally assaulted by his friend after an argument over buying liquor in Buriram Province, leaving the community in shock. The incident occurred yesterday in the village of Kradon, Huai Rat District. Police Lieutenant Ongart Manobal, Deputy Inspector of Huai Rat Police Station, received a report about a fatal assault. Upon arriving at the scene with a rescue team, police discovered the body of 46 year old Supot, lying on the roadside. His face bore severe wounds from being struck with a hard object, and he had multiple stab wounds on his abdomen. Nearby, a broken plastic chair and blood-stained wooden sticks were found. Residents identified the assailant as 47 year old Bunchoet, the owner of the house where the incident took place. Police detained Bunchoet, who appeared intoxicated and gave incoherent statements. He denied the assault, claiming the chair broke on its own and that he only poked Supot with the stick playfully. Bunchoet admitted he was upset because Supot had asked him to buy liquor, accusing him of taking advantage and only buying one round while Supot had bought two. Siam, the 73 year old victim’s father, revealed that Bunchoet had a history of violence in the village. Previous incidents included breaking someone’s ribs and slashing another’s throat, though none had been fatal. Each time Bunchoet was jailed for a few months, he would resume his violent behaviour upon release, instilling fear in the community. As a teenager, Bunchoet was known to be addicted to drugs, which likely contributed to his violent tendencies. This latest assault stemmed from an argument over who should purchase liquor. After Supot had already bought liquor twice, Bunchoet had only gone once, leading to a heated dispute that tragically ended in Supot’s death. Siam expressed a desire for the highest possible legal penalty to be imposed on Bunchoet, as the villagers had lived in fear for years, especially since Bunchoet had recently been released from prison for attempted murder, reported KhaoSod. The police have now detained Bunchoet and will proceed with legal action. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Police Arrest 5 Suspects in Robbery of British Crypto Trader Picture courtesy: 3PLUS News Bangkok - Pol. Col. Wachirakorn Wongbun, Superintendent of Khlong Tan Police Station, led a successful operation to apprehend five suspects involved in a robbery targeting a British stock (crypto) trader. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332942-police-arrest-5-suspects-in-robbery-of-british-crypto-trader/

Bangkok - Pol. Col. Wachirakorn Wongbun, Superintendent of Khlong Tan Police Station, led a successful operation to apprehend five suspects involved in a robbery targeting a British stock (crypto) trader. The suspects are identified as follows: - Mr. Abdullahi Ahmed Saney M., a Danish national - Ms. Shafiq S., a British national - Mr. Ahmed Saeed Y., a British national - Mr. Hussein Mohamed Hassan S., a British national - A foreign woman whose identity remains undisclosed Picture courtesy: 3PLUS News Evidence seized during the arrest includes two Apple mobile phones (iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 models), an Audemars Piguet watch, a Rolex watch, an ADCD credit card, and 24,000 baht in cash, totaling over 3 million baht in value. The incident occurred on July 12, 2024, at 4:50 a.m., when the victim socialized with the perpetrators at a residence in Phra Khanong Subdistrict, Khlong Toei District, Bangkok. During the encounter, the victim was threatened, physically assaulted, and restrained with rope and tape inside a room. Prompt investigation by law enforcement led to the identification of the suspects and their subsequent arrest with the recovered evidence. The suspects have denied the allegations and await legal proceedings. However, investigations reveal that this was their first criminal offense and that none of them were employed at the time of the incident. They face charges including armed robbery, assault causing physical or mental harm, coercion using weapons, unlawful confinement, extortion, and illegal possession of weapons in public areas. The case will proceed under the supervision of investigating officers for further legal action. Picture courtesy: 3PLUS News -- 2024-07-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Euro 2024 Gambling Crackdown: Over 200 Websites Closed Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a sweeping crackdown coinciding with the Euro 2024 football tournament, authorities have shut down 224 betting websites linked to illicit gambling activities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332940-euro-2024-gambling-crackdown-over-200-websites-closed/

In a sweeping crackdown coinciding with the Euro 2024 football tournament, authorities have shut down 224 betting websites linked to illicit gambling activities. The announcement follows the conclusion of Euro 2024, revealing a crackdown that targeted both on-site and online gambling, disrupting over 2.4 billion baht ($66 million) in illegal gambling flows. Starting from the tournament’s onset on June 14, a special police task force was mobilized to curb the spike in gambling expected with these large-scale sporting events. Their operations stretched across the tournament, concluding on July 11, the day after the final match. Assistant National Police Chief Akradet Pimolsri detailed that 3,863 suspects were arrested in connection with various gambling-related offences, including operators and participants. Efforts were not limited to digital platforms; raids on physical gambling dens led to 3,017 arrests. Akradet noted that these included 50 bookmakers and 2,944 punters. On the digital front, the crackdown led to 846 further arrests from the shutdown websites, including 145 operators running these illegal gambling hubs. Enforcement expanded beyond mere arrests, with a regional emphasis on maintaining order during the high-stakes football event. Surat Thani, for example, took a proactive role in raiding potential gambling hotspots, led by Police Major General Soempun Sirikong. A large-scale operation involving law enforcement, military, and community volunteers stood against illegal betting, emphasizing sustained efforts to combat such illicit activities during and within the aftermath of Euro 2024. This intensive policing showcases a strict stance from authorities against the nexus of sports and illegal gambling, aiming to safeguard public interest and curb the financial impact associated with such unauthorized activities. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-07-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Outstanding questions remain about new visa rules for Thailand By Barry Kenyon The latest Thai immigration rule changes are the biggest in 20 years. The interior minister has now signed off on the latest immigration rules which will permit citizens of 93 countries to obtain a visa-exempt 60 days on entering Thailand by land, air and sea. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332939-outstanding-questions-remain-about-new-visa-rules-for-thailand/

The interior minister has now signed off on the latest immigration rules which will permit citizens of 93 countries to obtain a visa-exempt 60 days on entering Thailand by land, air and sea. This includes all the countries which provide significant tourist numbers including the traditional markets of UK, mainland Europe, the USA and Australia. The formal introduction date is Monday July 15, but reports from newly arrived visitors suggest the doubling of 30 days to 60 is already in place. In the past, visa-exempt tourists with 30 days stamped into their passports had to apply at local immigration to extend another month. They had to pay a visa fee of 1,900 baht and provide evidence that their hotel, condominium or host had registered them with immigration (the famous TM30 address confirmation form). Now that visa-exempt visitors have two months on arrival, they are spared that additional bureaucracy. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tourists Criticized for Drunken, Inappropriate Behavior in Pai Picture courtesy: Khaosod In the scenic town of Pai, known for its tranquil natural beauty and distinct Thai culture, a growing issue has been reported as tourists engaging in rafting activities are increasingly disregarding local customs and values. Reports from local business operators indicate a series of disruptive behaviors causing tension and upheaval. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332937-tourists-criticized-for-drunken-inappropriate-behavior-in-pai/

In the scenic town of Pai, known for its tranquil natural beauty and distinct Thai culture, a growing issue has been reported as tourists engaging in rafting activities are increasingly disregarding local customs and values. Reports from local business operators indicate a series of disruptive behaviors causing tension and upheaval. Resort owners in Pai have expressed concerns about tourists who abuse alcohol while participating in popular rafting excursions along the Pai River. These complaints culminated on July 14, when a prominent local resort owner spoke out about tourists floating on rafts, discreetly consuming alcohol from plastic water bottles meant to deceive observers. This kind of behavior has not only disturbed the peace but has also led to more severe incidents. In a recent troubling incident on July 12, a resort owner reported an altercation involving a foreign couple who had entered the resort premises with the intention to engage in sexual activities. When confronted, the couple reacted belligerently., resulting in the owner’s property being damaged and the couple fleeing the scene before authorities could intervene. This incident prompted an immediate police report and has raised the ire of the local community. Despite previous agreements among business owners to curb these behaviors by not selling alcohol to rafting tourists, the problem persists, pointing to a significant enforcement challenge. The attraction of Pai as a gentle natural haven is marred by these accounts, prompting calls for stricter regulations and more robust community policing to preserve both the cultural integrity and the serene environment that Pai is renowned for. Local authorities are now facing growing pressure to address these issues effectively, maintaining Pai’s appeal while ensuring tourists can enjoy their activities without diminishing the quality of life or cultural respect that defines this unique northern Thai community. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-07-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Monday 15 July 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332934-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-monday-15-july-2024/

Authorities have suspended construction of a Chinese-owned luxury resort project on Koh Samui after discovering the property was not being built according to its permit. The buildings were taller than the legal limit, reaching 10 meters instead of 6 meters, and were positioned closer together than permitted. Officials raided the site, named "Anzhu Seamate," on Saturday. The local authority has ordered the site to be demolished and vowed to trace those responsible for its construction. Conservationists and residents near the Mekong river are petitioning the government not to sign a contract to buy electricity from a Hydropower Dam in Laos, they fear economic and territorial losses. An open letter was presented to the prime minister during his visit to Chaing Rai yesterday outlining their concerns that water backing up from the dam, could inundate homes and farmland along riverside communities. Laos hopes to sell 95% of the dams 920 megawatt supply to Thailand's electricity authority. . Eighteen Thai crewmen detained for illegally entering Cambodian territorial waters since May 25 have been released from a detention center and arrived back in Thailand yesterday. Their release follows a meeting between foreign minister from both countries and improved relations between thailand and Cambodia. Around the region. In Myanmar, ethnic armed groups say it had agreed a four-day ceasefire with the junta in northern Shan state, following weeks of clashes in which it seized territory from the military along a key highway to China. The new four-day agreement did not cover the neighboring Mandalay region, where heavy clashes have been ongoing in recent weeks. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Thunderstorms 33C degrees celsius Bangkok: cloudy thundershowers 32 Pattaya: Cloudy, thundershowers 30 Phuket and the south: cloudy with rain 30 Hua Hin: Cloudy, with isolated thundershowers during the afternoon 31 AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-07-15 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Illegal Resort Construction Halted on Koh Samui Picture courtesy: MGR online In a decisive crackdown on building regulation violations, Thai police have brought a screeching halt to the construction of a luxury resort on the scenic island of Koh Samui. The halted project, known as the Anju Cement Project, sparked controversy due to its breach of multiple building codes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332931-illegal-resort-construction-halted-on-koh-samui/

In a decisive crackdown on building regulation violations, Thai police have brought a screeching halt to the construction of a luxury resort on the scenic island of Koh Samui. The halted project, known as the Anju Cement Project, sparked controversy due to its breach of multiple building codes. The investigation into the project began after local authorities received several complaints from residents about the suspicious construction activities. Led by Police Major General Watcharin Pusit, a joint team comprising police officers and municipal engineers conducted a thorough inspection of the site located in the Maret area of the island. The inspection revealed startling violations, including structures that significantly exceeded the permitted height of 6 metres. The site, intended to hold 34 separate houses as per the original plan, was instead being modified into interconnected buildings, deviating widely from approved blueprints. This led to immediate municipal action, with an issued demolition order targeting the unlawfully constructed parts of the resort. The backstory of the project adds layers to the current situation. Acquired by a Chinese investor group in 2018, the 10 rai plot had seen rapid development until these breaches were unearthed. No workers were present at the time of the inspection, suggesting a temporary halt by the developers, likely aware of the impending official review. Response from the construction team was one of apparent surprise, claiming ignorance of the violations. They've agreed to comply with the stop order and revise the construction plans in accordance with legal requirements. Meanwhile, the Koh Samui municipal authorities lodged a formal complaint with Bo Phut Police Station, accusing the project of not only flouting building laws but also proceeding without proper authorizations. The case has now attracted the attention of the Environmental Crime Division (ECD), which is stepping in to further investigate and hold responsible parties accountable. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-07-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Massive Loan Shark Ring Busted in Chon Buri Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In an early morning raid yesterday, police in Chon Buri unveiled a sprawling loan shark operation, revealing illegal transactions close to 10 million baht. The crack down followed persistent complaints from local residents and small business owners about the gang's threats and violent collection tactics. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332930-massive-loan-shark-ring-busted-in-chon-buri/

In an early morning raid yesterday, police in Chon Buri unveiled a sprawling loan shark operation, revealing illegal transactions close to 10 million baht. The crack down followed persistent complaints from local residents and small business owners about the gang's threats and violent collection tactics. Operating from a fortified house in Nong Prue, Banglamung district, the gang had set up an intricate web of transactions documented scrupulously in several account books and digital devices seized during the raid. The police, armed with a search warrant from the Pattaya Provincial Court, stormed the residence, catching the occupants unawares while they were asleep. Inside the house, authorities found volumes of documents detailing the finances and personal details of hundreds of debtors who fell into the clutches of this high-interest trap. The initial investigations suggest the gang offered loans ranging from 3,000 to 20,000 baht, with exorbitant interest rates ensuring hefty returns ranging between 4 to 5 million baht each month. The leader of the group, 38-year-old Chanin, was apprehended at the scene. He confessed to running the illegal lending operation targeting vendors and small shop owners in the Pattaya, Nong Prue, and Banglamung areas. Chanin also tried to dissociate himself from the violent aspects of the operation. However, the discovery of bullets and numerous complaints about armed threats painted a different picture. Chanin’s claims that the capital was sourced from legitimate investors is under scrutiny, with police considering the possibility of further criminal involvements. The gang utilized business cards to discreetly market their loans, using the name "Phusing Bai Sakulphat", misleading debtors about the legality of their operation. The seized items from the raid included electronic gadgets used in the operation, bullets, and luxury items likely purchased from the profits of their illicit operations. All suspects were taken to the Nong Prue Police Station for further questioning and will face charges related to illegal money lending and intimidation. Further investigations are set to explore the full extent of this racket and ensure justice for those entangled in its ruinous cycle. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-07-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Motorbike taxi speeds along Patong Beach, alarming tourists (video) Photo of Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A motorbike taxi was seen speeding along Patong Beach in Phuket, causing confusion among the many tourists relaxing on the shore. Lifeguards attempted to intervene but were unable to catch the rider. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332929-motorbike-taxi-speeds-along-patong-beach-alarming-tourists-video/

A motorbike taxi was seen speeding along Patong Beach in Phuket, causing confusion among the many tourists relaxing on the shore. Lifeguards attempted to intervene but were unable to catch the rider. A video showing a motorbike taxi riding on Patong Beach in Kathu district, Phuket, was shared by Monsoongarbage Thailand and Newshawk Phuket, causing a stir on social media. The 16-second clip captures the incident that took place yesterday evening. It showed the motorbike weaving through the crowded beach, with confused tourists looking on. The incident prompted a wave of comments from the public, with many expressing their dismay. “We can’t blame foreign tourists when our own people set such examples.” “The police should start cracking down on these motorbike taxis.” “Phuket has a thousand problems every day.” Police confirmed that the motorbike rider was indeed a taxi driver, but his specific queue or affiliation was not identified. Lifeguards on duty tried to chase the rider but could not catch up to him. The video quickly gained traction online, sparking debates and discussions about the behaviour of local motorbike taxi drivers and the enforcement of regulations on the beach. Many pointed out the potential dangers of such actions, not only for the tourists but also for the rider himself. Locals voiced their frustration, noting that this was not an isolated incident but part of a larger issue with motorbike taxis in the area. They called for stricter enforcement and better regulation to prevent similar occurrences in the future, reported KhaoSod. In related news, two women reached out to several Thai news agencies to seek justice after a motorcycle taxi rider physically assaulted them in Soi Pattaya 4 after they complained about the rider failing to signal before turning. Photo of Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe