Bolt Driver Charged After Assaulting Japanese National in Bangkok

A Bolt driver has been charged after admitting to assaulting a Japanese national in Bangkok, with the victim refusing mediation and insisting on pursuing legal action to the fullest extent.

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The case was reviewed on 2 June 2026 at Thonglor Police Station, where Pradeemchai Boonchuayluea, adviser to the Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, followed up on the investigation. He stressed the need for a thorough and fair inquiry, citing concerns that the incident could affect Thailand’s image among international visitors.

Police said the dispute began after the Japanese man booked a ride through the Bolt application from a residence in Soi Ratchaprarop 14 to Soi Sukhumvit 45, opposite Soi Sukhumvit 30, where the victim’s restaurant is located.

According to investigators, when the vehicle reached the Asok intersection, the driver asked the passenger to leave the car before reaching the destination. The driver later told police that the fare was too low and traffic congestion made the journey unattractive.

The passenger insisted on being taken to the agreed destination, leading to an argument inside the vehicle. During questioning, the victim admitted swearing at the driver and kicking the driver’s seat with his knee.

The suspect stated that this confrontation escalated tensions and led him to order the passenger out of the vehicle. He later followed the tourist and physically assaulted him. The driver admitted that while frustration over the fare and traffic played a role, the increasingly hostile atmosphere inside the vehicle was the main reason he lost control of his emotions.

Police said the suspect has fully confessed to all charges and expressed remorse. He also indicated that he wished to apologise and seek mediation with the victim.

However, the victim declined any meeting with the suspect and confirmed that he wanted the case prosecuted. Police said the Japanese national remains fearful following the incident.

Thonglor Police have charged the suspect with assault and offences under the Land Transport Act. Investigators found that the vehicle was being used improperly for public transport services and that the driver did not possess a public transport driving licence.

Thaitabloid reported that further checks revealed that the vehicle is legally owned by the suspect’s father, while the Bolt account used to accept jobs belongs to the suspect. Records showed the driver had completed more than 2,000 trips and had previously received three to four one-star reviews and passenger complaints regarding his driving behaviour. The suspect is scheduled to appear in court on 4 June.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 3 June 2026