Fruit Seller Alleges Assault by Vietnamese Gang on Sukhumvit

A 34-year-old fruit seller has sought help from a public advocacy group after alleging he was assaulted by a group of Vietnamese men while selling coconuts in Sukhumvit Soi 24, Bangkok. The victim, Mr Khwan Thongmika, reported on the incident on 11 April 2026, presenting video evidence and visible injuries. He claims the attack stemmed from a dispute over selling rights in the area, which the group allegedly claimed as their territory.

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Mr Khwan stated that he and his brother have been selling coconuts in the area for over a year, with his brother operating near Benjakitti Park. Tensions reportedly began when a group of Vietnamese vendors started operating nearby, leading him to file complaints with Thong Lor Police Station and Khlong Toei district officials. He said the group would flee each time authorities were alerted, leading him to suspect advance warnings, though he provided no evidence.

He also alleged that the group warned Thai vendors not to sell in what they claimed was their controlled area. In a previous incident, he said he was chased with a knife and forced to flee. On 3 April, he followed the group after reporting them to local officials and was then confronted by three to four men in Sukhumvit Soi 31, who allegedly attacked him.

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

According to his account, one attacker struck him in the face after approaching from behind on a motorcycle, while others joined in using helmets and possibly knuckle weapons. Mr Khwan said he sustained facial injuries and heavy bleeding during the assault, which occurred while his child was present.

He further criticised the police response, claiming officers at the scene appeared to prioritise the foreign group and did not call emergency services, forcing him to seek help himself before filing a report. He also alleged that an officer warned him about “influential figures” in the area and advised him not to get involved, which he interpreted as bias.

Mr Khwan said previous complaints had not been acted upon, with police allegedly accusing him of making false reports or overstepping his authority. He insisted he had no personal conflict of interest and only sought enforcement of the law.

Mr Ekkaphop Lueangprasert, founder of the Sai Mai Must Survive page, said he would coordinate with Thong Lor police to investigate the case and verify whether the individuals involved were legally permitted to work in Thailand. He also plans to involve immigration authorities to examine possible regulatory breaches.

Khaosod reported that authorities are expected to review the evidence and determine further legal action. The case is being monitored to ensure the complainant receives a fair investigation.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 13 Apr 2026