Foreign Tourist Refuses Jet Ski Damages, Assaults Operator
A foreign tourist refused to pay for jet ski damage at Patong Beach in Phuket and assaulted the operator, leaving him with a fractured cheekbone and multiple injuries, prompting police to launch a manhunt.
A foreign tourist family rented a jet ski that collided with another, causing damage. When the jet ski operator demanded compensation, the tourist refused to pay and then assaulted the operator, leaving him seriously injured. Police are searching for the suspect.
On July 7, an assault occurred at Patong Beach in Kathu District, Phuket Province, after a foreign tourist rented and operated a jet ski that collided with another jet ski. When the operator requested compensation for the damage, the tourist refused and fled the scene before attacking the operator.
Nuttavut Detiam, the jet ski operator, explained that after the collision, he attempted to discuss the matter peacefully and provided evidence of the damage. However, the tourist refused to pay compensation and fled toward Bangla Road. When the operator followed to ask why the tourist wouldn't accept responsibility, a heated argument ensued. The tourist then grabbed the operator, threw him to the ground, and punched him in the face multiple times before fleeing.
Medical examination revealed the victim suffered multiple injuries including bruising across his body, facial swelling, and a fractured cheekbone. The victim stated he did not fight back because he knew the person was a tourist and wanted to follow legal procedures.
After the incident, the victim filed a complaint with Deputy Police Lieutenant Piyanat Khuntong, the investigation officer at Patong Police Station. He reported that while working at Patong Beach, a family of three foreign tourists—a father, mother, and child—rented two jet skis that subsequently caused damage. During discussions about compensation, the tourists refused to pay and headed toward Bangla Road. The victim followed to pursue the matter and was assaulted. The perpetrator fled toward CentralFestival mall.
Police Colonel Grakkrit Khankhruea, commander of Patong Police Station, revealed that upon receiving the complaint, he ordered the investigation team to urgently review CCTV footage and gather evidence to track down the foreign tourist and prosecute according to law, while ensuring justice for all parties.
The victim is demanding the perpetrator be held liable for both the jet ski damage and the assault damages. He has also urged law enforcement to strictly enforce the law against tourists who commit offenses, to build confidence among business operators and tourism workers in Phuket Province.
