BANGKOK, THAILAND – A ride-hailing app driver violently attacked a Japanese tourist, sparking a wider investigation into app providers.
Angriff in Asok
Authorities reported that a 23-year-old ride-hailing app driver allegedly threw a 52-year-old Japanese tourist from his vehicle and assaulted him during a ride in the Asok area. The driver faces three charges: assault, operating an unregistered vehicle for public transport, and driving without a public transport license. The suspect is scheduled to appear before the South Bangkok District Court on June 4, 2026.
The driver surrendered to authorities and confessed to the incident. Investigators have collected evidence, including media-released footage, to support the allegations.
Geständnis und Aussagen
The accused presented himself at the Thong Lo police station with his father, the vehicle owner. He claimed to have acted out of momentary anger. The victim declined to settle the matter outside of court and proceeded with filing a criminal complaint.
Police Chief Pol. Col. Ratthanon Ekthitikulphat is overseeing the case, including the official recording of the complaint and the classification of the charges. The authorities have documented the evidence gathered.
35.000 Baht Entschädigung
The ride-hailing app company’s representative met with the victim at the police station. The company apologized and provided 5,000 Baht for medical expenses and 30,000 Baht in compensation, totaling 35,000 Baht. This action was presented as an acknowledgment of their responsibility towards the injured tourist.
Reports indicate that the victim continued to use the ride-hailing service, suggesting that the company’s acceptance of responsibility helped to partially restore his trust.
Ministerin beauftragt Nachverfolgung
On June 3, 2026, Supamas Issaraphakdee, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office and Chairperson of the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB), instructed advisor Pradermchai Boonchuay to fully investigate and resolve the case. This initiative aligns with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s policy to prioritize the safety and confidence of tourists.
Minister Supamas emphasized that platform responsibilities extend beyond merely suspending drivers.
“The suspect has admitted guilt and the company has provided compensation, but I will not stop at this single case. The goal is to make the app-based ride-hailing system safe for everyone, whether Thai or tourists.”
said Supamas Issaraphakdee, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office.
Vorladungen und Branchen-Treffen
The OCPB will summon the app provider involved on June 5, 2026, to discuss their driver selection system, sanctions, and measures to prevent recurrence. All 13 app providers have been invited to a meeting on June 12, 2026, with the Department of Land Transport and other agencies.
Discussions with the Department of Land Transport revealed that only three of the 13 app providers are properly registered as public transportation services, with ten still awaiting registration. The department announced its intention to act within its legal authority.
Behörden kooperieren – Beschwerden möglich
The OCPB, Department of Land Transport, Royal Thai Police, and the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) will implement integrated measures and report back within 30 days. Consumers experiencing issues are advised to secure driver and vehicle details and booking confirmations. They can contact the OCPB hotline at 1166, the OCPB Connect app, the website ocpb.go.th, or the nationwide Damrongtham centers.
Foreign tourists can reach the tourist police 24/7 at 1155. The authorities stressed that inter-agency cooperation aims to improve industry oversight and enhance passenger safety. Complaints will be addressed promptly to foster confidence in ride-hailing apps.