Phuket Taxi Rivalry Turns Violent in Hospital Knife Fight

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Photo courtesy of The Phuket News

 

A long-standing rivalry between two motorcycle taxi drivers erupted into violence outside Vachira Phuket Hospital last night, leaving one driver seriously injured.

 

The conflict, breaking out around 9 PM on February 13, involved a brutal knife fight between the men over passenger disputes. Police, led by Deputy Chief of Investigation, Captain Pawinut Kongsut, rushed to the scene following reports of the incident.

 

Officers found 56-year-old Chit Saengsuwan suffering from multiple stab wounds. He received emergency treatment at the hospital. Meanwhile, 45-year-old Nikhom Yukong sustained injuries, reportedly from a fall, rather than the stabbing itself.

 

 

A witness, 50-year-old Thawan Saisamut, explained that tensions had been escalating for some time due to competition for fares. The latest argument over passenger pickups spiraled out of control, with Nikhom allegedly stabbing Chit four to five times.

 

Bystanders watched in shock as police arrived, arresting Nikhom and taking him to Phuket City Police Station for questioning. Police have confirmed legal proceedings will follow, with investigations ongoing.

 

The incident raises concerns over escalating violence among taxi drivers in Phuket, where disputes over territory and passengers have become alarmingly dangerous. Local police now face pressure to mitigate tensions and prevent future altercations from turning deadly, reported The Thaiger.

 

-- 2025-02-14