UDON THANI, THAILAND – A Norwegian tourist was detained on New Year’s morning after he was found walking naked in a side street and allegedly doing push-ups in public.
Drunk tourist found naked in side street
Residents in Soi Phothong in the northeastern city of Udon Thani reported that around 9:40 a.m. on New Year’s Day, a completely drunk man was seen walking through the street without any clothing. Police officers called to the scene encountered a 28-year-old Norwegian who appeared confused and disoriented. Witnesses told officers the man seemed unfazed by passersby and even performed push-ups in public.
Clothes recovered, cash returned
Police later found the tourist’s clothes and shoes in a nearby canal. Officers reported that 3,500 baht in cash, roughly equivalent to 90 euros, was still in the trousers and was returned to him. According to the investigation, the man had earlier caused a disturbance in a local shopping mall before the incident in the side street.
Teenage girl says she was frightened
The most striking account came from a 13-year-old girl who encountered the man while walking home from a New Year almsgiving ceremony.
“It scared me,”
said the girl, who told officers she had previously seen the Norwegian unsuccessfully trying to force open a restaurant toilet door. She recognized him from the neighborhood, where he had reportedly been seen for about a week.
Apartment manager orders tourist to leave
The 70-year-old apartment manager, Prasit, confirmed to police that the tourist had been living in the building for about a month. He said the man would now be asked to move out of the property. The decision underscored local concerns about maintaining order in the largely residential area.
“I can’t remember anything”
During questioning, the Norwegian, identified as Christian, admitted he had celebrated New Year’s Eve heavily at a restaurant in the Samphanthamit area with friends who left him early.
“At around two in the morning I was so drunk that I can’t remember anything,”
said Christian, adding that he had no recollection of taking off his clothes or walking through the alley. He told investigators the events after that time were a complete blank.
Indecency charge and legal steps
Officers took the man into custody and transferred him to the Udon Thani City Police Station. There he was charged with “committing an indecent act” under Thai law, and investigators said they would proceed with a formal criminal case. The offense carries the prospect of a fine and, in the worst case, a prison sentence.
Tight enforcement of public order
Authorities emphasized that such violations were not treated lightly in Thailand, particularly when they disturb public order. The case was cited as another example of firm enforcement against misconduct by foreign visitors that affects local communities. For the Norwegian tourist, the New Year celebration ended at the police station, marking an embarrassing and potentially costly start to 2026.
Hospitality and expectations
The incident occurred just hours after thousands of Thais had attended peaceful temple ceremonies across the country to pray for a good New Year. Thailand is known for its hospitality, but officials and residents alike expect respect for local laws and social norms from visitors. The swift complaint by residents and the rapid arrest illustrated a low tolerance for behavior seen as crossing the line in public spaces, particularly when it causes fear among children.