A 29-year-old Thai delivery rider was assaulted by a foreign tourist, reported by witnesses to be Russian, on Pattaya beach in the early hours of 4 May 2026 after politely warning him not to smoke cannabis in a public area. The incident, which occurred around 2:00 AM along the beachfront, was captured on video and widely shared on social media. The victim, Mr Kittiphong Sa-adchandrai, sustained injuries during the confrontation, prompting public concern.
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Mr Kittiphong said he had been relaxing and eating with friends at a beachside table when a nearby foreign tourist began smoking cannabis, causing a strong odour to spread. He approached the man courteously and advised that smoking cannabis in a public area was inappropriate and against Thai law and local beach regulations. Despite an attempt by the tourist’s Thai girlfriend to calm the situation, the man became agitated.
Picture courtesy of Daily News
As Mr Kittiphong turned to return to his table, the tourist allegedly attacked him from behind, triggering a scuffle. The suspect reportedly claimed to be a “boxer” during the confrontation and challenged others, stating he could act as he wished. The victim added that another group of Thai diners had earlier warned the same individual and were also assaulted in a similar manner.
Pattaya municipal officers arrived quickly to bring the situation under control. However, the foreign tourist continued provocative behaviour, walking around the area and making obscene gestures towards the victims and officials. Authorities instructed both parties to separate and ordered the tourist to return to his accommodation to prevent further escalation.
The incident has sparked widespread discussion online, with some social media users calling for stricter enforcement of public conduct rules and a review of tourism policies. Questions have also been raised about the lack of immediate charges against the suspect at the scene. No serious injuries were reported, and the situation was eventually contained.
Daily News reported that authorities are expected to review CCTV footage and witness statements as part of an ongoing investigation into the incident. Further legal action may depend on the outcome of the inquiry and the formal complaints filed by those involved.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 5 May 2026
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