A foreign man fled a dental clinic in Pattaya without paying a 400 baht treatment fee, leaving staff frustrated and prompting a police complaint. The incident occurred on 30 April 2026 at around 10.40am at a clinic on Pattaya South Road, Chon Buri. Staff said the man also made an offensive gesture before escaping on a motorcycle.
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According to the clinic manager, Ms Thanaporn, 42, the man, who stated to staff he was an American aged 27, entered the clinic claiming severe tooth pain and requesting urgent treatment. He appeared dishevelled, with a smell resembling cannabis and displayed behaviour suggesting he may have been under the influence of a substance. Despite this, the clinic proceeded with standard procedures, including an X-ray and treatment, after clearly informing him of the cost, which he accepted.
After the treatment was completed, the man’s behaviour reportedly changed abruptly. Staff said he became loud, argued with employees, banged on a table and refused to pay the agreed fee. Taking advantage of a moment of distraction, he left the clinic quickly, mounted a motorcycle and fled the scene, raising his middle finger at staff as he departed.
A dental assistant described the suspect as wearing a white sleeveless shirt and green-black shorts, with tattoos covering both arms. She said he was the first customer of the day and expressed disappointment, noting that the clinic had provided care in good faith, but was taken advantage of.
The clinic manager has urged authorities to tighten screening measures for tourists, particularly those displaying behaviour that could lead to problems. She also called for police to track down the suspect and pursue legal action, stressing that even small amounts should not go unpunished to prevent similar incidents.
Police at Pattaya City Police Station have accepted the complaint and are gathering evidence to identify and locate the man. Officers said further action will follow once sufficient information is obtained.
Picture courtesy of เช็กข่าวพัทยา
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Adapted by ASEAN Now เช็กข่าวพัทยา 1 May 2026