A viral video shared on 9 June 2026 has shown a child, estimated to be under 10 years old, steering a passenger car on a busy public road in Phuket. The vehicle was seen moving erratically and weaving across lanes on Chaofa Road, heading towards the Central Phuket intersection, in moderate to heavy traffic. Other road users reportedly slowed and increased distance after noticing the unpredictable driving, which raised immediate safety concerns for motorists and pedestrians in the area.
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The clip, circulated by a local news pages in Phuket, initially led viewers to believe the driver may have been intoxicated or inexperienced due to the vehicle’s unstable movement. However, closer observation revealed that the person behind the wheel was a young boy, seated on the lap of a foreign adult. The footage quickly spread across social media platforms, drawing significant attention and debate.
The video triggered widespread criticism online, with many users questioning the responsibility of the child’s guardians for allowing him to operate a vehicle on a public highway. Commenters also called for accountability from authorities, repeatedly asking where the police were at the time of the incident. Some social media users compared the situation to other countries where such behaviour could result in immediate legal consequences for guardians.
Picture courtesy of Amarin
Concerns were also raised about road safety on one of Phuket’s main routes, which typically experiences high traffic volumes throughout the day. Observers noted that the risk extended beyond the individuals in the vehicle, potentially endangering other road users if an accident had occurred. The incident has intensified calls for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and closer monitoring of unsafe driving practices, particularly involving minors.
Amarin reported that as of the time of reporting, there has been no confirmed statement from local authorities regarding any investigation or legal action linked to the video. Public attention continues to focus on whether police will examine the circumstances and determine whether any offences were committed by the driver or guardians involved. The situation remains under public scrutiny as online discussions persist.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 12 June 2026