A British national, has had his permission to stay in Thailand revoked after allegedly assaulting a tuk tuk driver during a fare dispute in Phuket. Police arrested the man on July 2 and took him to Patong Police Station, where he now faces legal proceedings over the alleged attack.
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The incident happened at around 5am in Soi Na Nai and attracted widespread attention after video footage of the confrontation was shared on Thai social media. The footage showed the driver arguing with the foreign man before the altercation turned violent, with the man allegedly punching the driver in the face and causing him to fall backwards.
The tuk tuk driver told Thai media that the dispute began after the foreign man and two foreign women allegedly refused to pay a 300 baht fare. According to the driver, the argument escalated when he attempted to collect the money, leading to the assault captured on video.
Pictures courtesy of Phuket Times
The driver said he suffered an injury to his mouth that required 10 stitches. He also told reporters he felt frustrated by the incident, saying he had simply been trying to earn a living when the dispute occurred.
Phuket Times later identified the suspect as a British national, who operates a cannabis shop near the scene. The outlet also reported claims that he had previous disputes with local residents and had allegedly failed to pay wages owed to Thai workers. Police have not confirmed those allegations.
Police later arrested the suspect and transferred him to Patong Police Station for further legal action. According to the Phuket Thailand News Network Facebook page, immigration officers revoked his permission to remain in Thailand in addition to charging him with physical assault.
Under Section 295 of Thailand’s Criminal Law, the alleged offence carries a maximum penalty of two years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both. The investigation is continuing, with the criminal case now proceeding through the legal process. Authorities have not released further details about any additional charges or court proceedings.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Phuket Times 4 July 2026