Pattaya, Thailand – On the evening of April 12th, 2026, a violent brawl involving a group of local motorbike taxi drivers and foreign tourists sparked widespread outrage on social media after graphic video footage was shared online.
The incident occurred in Soi 6. A good Samaritan recorded the clip, which shows several men wearing orange motorbike taxi vests brutally kicking and punching at least one foreign tourist, knocking him to the ground. Another foreigner can be seen attempting to intervene and assist his friend amid the chaos, while onlookers watched the scene unfold. Some men of unknown nationality were also involved.
The video quickly circulated on social platforms, drawing sharp criticism over the excessive use of violence, particularly during the Songkran water festival period when large numbers of tourists visit Pattaya.
The Pattaya News reporters who visited the scene near a beer bar in the soi found no injured parties or suspects remaining, as everyone involved had already dispersed. Local Thai and foreign tourists continued splashing water and celebrating Songkran normally in the area.
According to anonymous witnesses who spoke to reporters, the conflict began when two foreign tourists were playing Songkran by spraying water on people using water guns. They allegedly sprayed water at a group of motorbike taxi drivers, leading to an argument that rapidly escalated into a physical brawl and assault.
As of now, no victims have come forward to file an official complaint with police at Pattaya City Police Station. However, investigative officers plan to visit the area to gather more evidence, determine the full circumstances, and proceed with legal action against those responsible.
The incident has raised concerns about safety and the behavior of some local service providers during the busy festive season, when tensions can run high amid the celebrations. Authorities are expected to monitor the situation closely to prevent further disruptions to Pattaya’s tourism image.
