Speedboat Driver Arrested After Fatal Krabi Sea Collision

Pictures courtesy of Daily News

Tourist police have arrested a speedboat driver following a marine collision in Krabi province that killed a Russian tourist and injured 13 tour passengers. The arrest comes after investigators confirmed the suspect had used illegal drugs, prompting authorities to pursue charges to the fullest extent of the law to protect tourist safety and confidence.

The incident occurred when a tourist speedboat collided with a fishing trawler near the Phi Phi islands. The crash resulted in the death of one Russian national and left multiple passengers injured, triggering an urgent investigation by marine and tourist police. The case has drawn national attention due to its impact on tourist safety and Thailand’s international image.

On 14 January, Pol Col Naraphon Wattanakornthavee, superintendent of Sub-Division 2 of Tourist Police Division 3, said the investigation followed direct orders from Tourist Police Commissioner Lt Gen Saksira Pueak-am and Division 3 commander Maj Gen Sretthasak Yimcharoen. Officers were instructed to gather evidence swiftly and track down the suspect to ensure accountability and restore confidence among visitors.

Pol Lt Col Ekachai Siri, chief inspector of Tourist Police Station 1, Sub-Division 2, Division 3, said police arrested Mr Suriya, aged 44, the speedboat driver named in an arrest warrant issued by the Krabi Provincial Court. The warrant, numbered 11/2569 and dated 13 January 2569, authorised his detention on multiple charges linked to the collision.

Mr Suriya faces accusations of reckless operation causing death and serious injury, as well as illegal use of a Category 1 narcotic, identified as methamphetamine. Investigators confirmed a prior drug history following testing, strengthening the case against him. Police said the charges reflect the severity of the incident and the harm caused.

The arrest was made at Vachira Phuket Hospital on Yaowarat Road in Talat Yai subdistrict, Mueang Phuket district. He was taken into custody, formally processed, and transferred to investigators at Phuket City Police Station for detention proceedings. Authorities are coordinating to send him onward to Koh Phi Phi Police Station to face additional legal action related to the maritime collision.

Daily News reported that tourist police said the case was not a routine crash but a serious safety failure with fatal consequences. Officers reiterated their commitment to transparent legal proceedings to ensure justice for the deceased, the injured and the wider tourism sector.

Key Takeaways

• A speedboat collision near Phi Phi killed one Russian tourist and injured multiple passengers.

• Police arrested the 44-year-old driver on charges including reckless operation and methamphetamine use.

• Authorities say the case will be pursued strictly to reinforce marine safety and tourist confidence.

Original Story

Speedboat-carrying-50-tourists-hits-fishing-boat-near-Phi-Phi

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Dailynews 2026-01-15