BANGKOK, THAILAND – Two attacks on foreign visitors in Bangkok and on Koh Samet have prompted the Ministry of Tourism to take action. The minister ordered stricter security and control measures following an assault on a Japanese businessman by a Bolt driver in Bangkok and a man confessing to breaking into a tourist’s room on Koh Samet with the intent to rape her.
Attack in Bangkok: Dispute in Ride Escalates
In Bangkok, a Bolt driver allegedly ordered his passenger, a Japanese businessman, to exit the vehicle after an argument and subsequently pursued and attacked him publicly. The Thong Lor police are questioning both men, with investigators gathering witness statements and video evidence. The driver reportedly cited traffic jams and low earnings as reasons for losing control, and criminal proceedings are being considered.
Minister Orders Reviews and Stricter Oversight
Minister of Tourism and Sports, Surasak Phancharoenworakul, responded on Wednesday with instructions to tighten security checks for transport providers and enhance collaboration between the Tourist Police and the Department of Land Transport. The ministry called for cooperation from service providers and the public.
“The Ministry of Tourism and Sports asks for the cooperation of tourism service providers and the public to be good hosts and create a positive image for the country so that tourists are impressed and have confidence in traveling to Thailand.”
said Surasak Phancharoenworakul, Minister of Tourism and Sports.
Koh Samet: Woman Wakes Up and Raises Alarm
On Koh Samet, a 32-year-old tourist raised the alarm when an unknown individual allegedly attempted to break into her room at night. She was found in a state of shock and was attended to by resort staff. Police Lieutenant Woratath Rueangrit of the Phe Police Station coordinated the response, with CCTV footage playing a key role, and the police reached the resort within approximately 15 minutes.
Arrest at Construction Site: Confession of Rape Intent
Officers identified the suspect as Nattapong, a 31-year-old construction worker nicknamed Lek. According to police, they found him playing online games on his mobile phone before arresting him. During questioning, investigators stated that the arrested individual admitted to entering the woman’s room without permission. However, the situation de-escalated when the tourist awoke, prompting the man to flee.
Victim’s Circumstances and Resort’s Reaction
The woman was traveling with approximately 15 friends on Koh Samet. Her group occupied several rooms, leading to her being alone at the time of the incident, as she described to investigators. The resort emphasized that the suspect was not an employee but worked at a nearby construction site. The management announced tightened controls for individuals on the premises and increased surveillance.
Investigations, Charges, and Industry Consequences
Criminal investigations are underway against the Bolt driver. On Koh Samet, police have filed charges against the arrested man, who remains in custody, for attempted rape, nocturnal trespassing, and illegal online gambling. The ministry is intensifying screening procedures for transport companies and tourism zones as part of the “Trusted Thailand” initiative, while investigations into both cases continue.