PHUKET, THAILAND – A tuk-tuk driver lost control of his vehicle on a steep curve, resulting in injuries to five tourists.
An accident occurred on the evening of June 15, when a yellow tuk-tuk lost control on Patong Hill. The three-wheeled vehicle overturned, Throwing five tourists from Oman into disarray. All sustained minor injuries, and the driver now faces legal consequences.
Yellow Tuk-tuk Lies on Its Side
The incident took place at 8:18 PM on Phra Baramee Road. Police and rescuers from the Kusoldham Phuket Foundation discovered the Daihatsu tuk-tuk lying on the lane heading towards Kathu. The driver, Ekarin Jarujinda, 54, was transporting the five holidaymakers from Phuket Town to a hotel in Patong when the accident happened. In the infamous curve of Patong Hill, he lost control of the vehicle, causing it to flip onto its side.
Five Tourists from Oman
All five passengers suffered light injuries. Rescuers provided assistance to the men at the scene, and no fatalities were reported. The Omani nationals were identified as Sulaiman Said Sulaiman Al Mamari, 19; Faisal Ali Sulaiman Al Mamari, 21; Faris Sulaiman Hamdan Al Jahwari, 24; Salim Ali Sulaiman Al Mamari, 23; and Sulaiman Ali Sulaiman Al Mamari, 29.
Driver and Indictment
Investigator Lieutenant Colonel Chanarong Prakongkuea of the Patong Police confirmed that charges were immediately filed against the driver. The accusation is negligent driving resulting in personal and property damage. Ekarin told officers that he simply lost control of the vehicle. Police meticulously documented the accident scene for the ongoing proceedings.
Investigations and Pending Tests
It remains unclear whether alcohol or drugs were involved, as the results of the relevant tests were still pending at the conclusion of initial investigations. The Patong Police are continuing their inquiry into the accident. Further violations could lead to more charges for Ekarin Jarujinda if the tests prove conclusive.