A British man in his 30s was arrested after allegedly attacking municipal enforcement officers at Tha Phae Gate in Chiang Mai on 23 June 2026. The incident occurred at around 10.30am and caused disruption in the city centre before police brought the situation under control.
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According to Chiang Mai Provincial Police radio centre, the man, described as tall and heavily built, arrived at the scene on a black big bike motorcycle and approached municipal officers who were carrying out their duties near the inner side of Tha Phae Gate in Mueang district.
Officials said the man shouted abuse at officers and made offensive gestures, including showing his middle finger. Patrol police responding to the incident moved in to contain the situation and initially detained the man.
People close to the man reportedly believed he was experiencing a mental health episode. They told authorities that he appeared to be hearing voices and had a long-standing dislike of people in uniform.
Municipal officers stated that they became concerned the situation was escalating and requested additional support by radio before notifying police. Before officers arrived, the man allegedly became enraged and physically attacked municipal personnel, punching them repeatedly and causing disorder in the area.
Police from Mueang Chiang Mai Police Station and Chiang Mai Tourist Police were called to assist. Working together, officers subdued the man and took him into custody.
Pictures courtesy of Amarin
The suspect was later transferred to investigators at Mueang Chiang Mai Police Station for legal proceedings. No details were released regarding injuries suffered by the municipal officers involved.
Police also learned that the British national had allegedly been involved in similar confrontations on several previous occasions. However, officers said this was the most serious and violent incident attributed to him so far.
The case remains under investigation, and authorities are expected to proceed with legal action in accordance with Thai law. No further information regarding charges or the man’s identity have been released.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 24 June 2026