Mr Nirat said the post raised concerns about potential impacts on tourism, DOPA Phuket told The Phuket News..
Kathu District Chief Akkaraphon Suthirak Chittsuphap, accompanied by the Deputy District Chief of Patong Police Station and members of the Kathu District unit of the Volunteer Defense Corps (OrSor), reviewed the incident and followed up on Patong Police Station’s legal proceedings today (Aug 14), Kathu District Office reported.
According to the investigation, the incident occurred at Rolling Stone All Tour on Soi Patong Center, Phra Metta Rd, Patong, at around 9pm last Sunday (Aug 10).
An Arab tourist had rented a Honda X-ADV 750cc motorcycle and requested a test ride. During the ride, an accident occurred that damaged the motorcycle. The shop demanded B50,000 in compensation, but the tourist offered only B10,000, said the report.
An argument escalated into a physical altercation. The tourist called five friends to intervene, resulting in a brawl. A witness clarified that reports claiming 20 tourists were involved were inaccurate; most bystanders were not part of the fight.
The Thai motorbike rental operators suffered injuries and was hospitalised after the gang assault.
Patong Police Chief Pol Col Chalermchai Hirasawat and Pol Lt Col Chittawan Pengkaew, the investigating officer, confirmed that assault charges have been filed against six foreign nationals.
The Immigration Bureau has temporarily suspended their travels while the investigation continues, pending medical reports.
Additionally, an Arab tourist has filed a counter-report alleging assault by a Thai individual.
The Kathu District Chief said the case will be closely monitored and updates will be provided to the Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration.