The fight, believed to have been sparked by competition for customers, was captured on video and widely shared on social media, sparking debate about the incident’s impact on Phuket’s reputation.
One local social media channel posted a video of the incident, with the caption: “#Stealing Arab customers among themselves by the Bangla hotties. Should we change the stage from the street to a canvas floor? Let’s organize it already. #Organize #OrganizeIt.”
The footage shows a group of ladyboys exchanging slaps and engaging in a physical fight on the popular nightlife street. Tourists can be seen observing the commotion, which caused a scene in one of Phuket’s busiest entertainment hubs.
Netizens who saw the video expressed a mix of amusement, criticism and concern. Comments ranged from sarcastic remarks to worries about the negative impact on Phuket’s image as a top tourist destination.
One commenter quipped: “They’re selling the same thing and still fighting ‒ smashing their own rice pots!”. Another criticised the behavior, saying, “This is ruining the image of a world-class tourist city!”
Some commenters attributed the fight to growing competition among service workers in the area, while others lamented how Bangla Rd has changed over the years.