A foreign man was beaten by angry locals in Pattaya after allegedly attacking a disabled Thai man and spitting at police officers during a drunken outburst in a busy nightlife district.
The incident unfolded just before midnight on Wednesday in Soi Buakhao, a popular entertainment strip in central Pattaya, Chon Buri province. The shirtless man, believed to be between 30 and 40 years old, was seen stumbling along the street in a highly intoxicated state, shouting at bystanders and causing panic among tourists and residents.
Security guards from nearby venues attempted to restrain him, but the situation quickly escalated when a group of locals, enraged by his behaviour, joined in and began physically assaulting him. The chaotic scene was captured on mobile phones by onlookers and quickly spread on social media.
Police arrived at the scene within minutes. The local police said the man became aggressive upon seeing officers and spat at them while resisting arrest. He was subdued and taken to the local police station to calm down.
Authorities later charged the man with two offences: public intoxication leading to disorderly conduct, and insulting a public official while on duty. His nationality has not yet been confirmed. Initial investigations suggest the man had been arguing with a Thai woman over missing money shortly before the incident. Witnesses said the altercation turned violent when he allegedly shoved a disabled man to the ground, triggering outrage among nearby residents.
Police said the man was already being restrained by locals when they arrived. Officers are now reviewing video footage and speaking with witnesses to determine whether additional charges will be filed.
The incident has sparked renewed concerns over tourist behaviour in Pattaya, a city that draws millions of visitors each year but frequently makes headlines for alcohol-fuelled disturbances.