Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

A tuk-tuk driver has met with Chiang Mai police to explain an incident that went viral on social media after a Chinese tourist posted a video alleging abusive behaviour.

 

The video, shared by the tourist under the title “Thailand is not safe,” depicts a tuk-tuk driver shouting and making crude gestures after the tourist declined a ride near a hotel in the city centre. The incident drew widespread criticism and was reported by Chinese tourism media, raising concerns over Chiang Mai’s reputation.

 

On 1 September, the 27-year-old driver, identified only as “A,” met with Police Colonel Prachya Thisala, superintendent of Chiang Mai City Police Station, to provide his account of the events that occurred on 28 August on Ratchamankha Road.

 

The driver said he had approached tourists in the usual manner, offering rides. According to him, the Chinese tourist responded with profanities in Chinese, directed at his mother, which caused him to lose his temper, prompting the behaviour captured in the viral video.

 

“I’ve been driving tuk-tuk for two years and have faced rude tourists before, but never insults towards my family,” the driver said. “I admit this incident damaged Chiang Mai’s image and I want to apologise to everyone. It will not happen again.”

 

Police Colonel Prachya stated that the Chinese tourist had filed a daily report at the station but was not yet ready to give a full statement. “This incident has significantly damaged Chiang Mai’s reputation. The provincial transport office has also begun investigating,” he said.

 

He urged all passenger vehicle operators to exercise extreme patience and caution when serving both Thai and foreign passengers. Police said they will work with drivers to promote proper conduct, emphasising the importance of avoiding confrontations and providing courteous service at all times.

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-09-03

 

 

 

Already in Chinese tourism media.Great!

Amazing these TukTuk drivers have learned Chinese to understand what the man said. 

I call foul.. The driver should be questioned in Chinese as it seems he can claim his knowledge of the language. Those drivers do not interact with tourist except to collect money. 

Don't believe a word he said. There were no insults directed at his mother, he just got the hump because he couldn't rip them off with a ride.

53 minutes ago, hunkidori said:

Don't believe a word he said. There were no insults directed at his mother, he just got the hump because he couldn't rip them off with a ride.

Hunker down, hunkydory (you've misspelt your name) 😂

 

Some of the Chinese coming to Thailand these days are proper bad dudes. 

He's obviously antagonized the tuktuk driver. 

 

There are lots of vendors in Thailand trying to sell their goods to tourists, it's how they feed their families. 

If you don't want their business just politely decline, no need to insult