PATTAYA, Thailand – A parking dispute outside a nightclub escalated into violence, leaving a motorbike taxi driver hospitalized.
A conflict that began with a parking ban in front of a nightlife venue has escalated. Two foreign men are alleged to have attacked a 51-year-old motorbike taxi driver in Pattaya. The victim is currently receiving medical treatment.
Punch After Parking Hint
The incident occurred around 10 p.m. on June 13th, on Bua Khao Road near the Tree Town Night Market. Sumate, a motorbike taxi driver, approached two men who had parked their motorbikes in a no-parking zone, blocking a private driveway.
Sumate asked the men to move their vehicles. One of the men reportedly became angry and struck him without warning. The 51-year-old fell to the ground as a result of the initial blow.
Second Attack with Bear Hug
The two men then attempted to leave the scene. Sumate followed them to confront them further. This led to another altercation between the parties involved.
One of the attackers allegedly grabbed the taxi driver in a bear hug before both men left. The assailants only disengaged from Sumate when witnesses intervened, then fled on their motorbikes.
Victim Requires Inpatient Care
Emergency responders from the Sawang Boriboon Dhammastan Foundation found Sumate at the scene. He was transported to Pattaya City Hospital for further medical attention. While his condition has improved, he remains under inpatient care.
Complaint Planned After Hospital Discharge
Sumate has stated that he will not let the incident go unaddressed. From his hospital bed, he announced his intention to file a police report once he is discharged. Several witnesses reportedly filmed the incident on their mobile phones.
He expressed hope that the video evidence will aid in the investigation. The nationality of the attackers remains unclear, though Sumate suspects they may be from the Middle East. Authorities have not yet provided an official confirmation of the events.
Fatal Shooting in Bangkok
This case bears resemblance to a more violent escalation that occurred in the capital. Just one day later, on June 14th, a Border Patrol Police officer shot and killed two motorbike taxi drivers and injured a third in the Din Daeng district of Bangkok. The motive for that shooting was reportedly a dispute over a fare. The officer involved has been charged. Both incidents highlight how quickly conflicts surrounding motorbike taxis can spiral out of control.