A group of eight foreign tourists, believed to be Russian nationals, sparked widespread criticism after being filmed engaging in inappropriate behaviour in the sea off Pattaya beach in the early hours of 6 May 2026. The incident, which reportedly lasted nearly an hour, drew attention from bystanders and has raised concerns.
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The video, shared online by the page “Tok Muek Pattaya Wan Jeab”, shows four couples entering the water near Soi 13/4 along Pattaya Beach Road. Witnesses initially thought the group was swimming, but later observed behaviour described as sexually explicit, despite repeated shouted verbal warnings from onlookers.

Picture courtesy of SiamChon
According to a 44-year-old witness, identified as Mr Mon, the incident occurred between around 03:00. He stated the group appeared intoxicated and openly embraced, kissed, and engaged in acts resembling intercourse in the water, while other tourists and locals recorded videos and attempted to intervene.
Mr Mon said the group ignored repeated attempts to stop them and continued their actions without regard for those nearby. He added that one couple eventually left the scene after noticing they were being filmed, while the others remained before eventually leaving without confrontation.
The footage has since circulated widely on social media, prompting strong public reaction. Many critics have described the behaviour as inappropriate in a public setting and damaging to Thailand’s reputation, particularly as similar incidents involving foreign tourists have reportedly occurred in the past.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether any laws were broken but have begun reviewing the incident. Officials are expected to determine if legal action is warranted and consider measures to improve oversight and maintain order along the beach during late-night hours.
Adapted by ASEAN Now SiamChon 7 May 2026
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