PATTAYA, Thailand – Local residents have voiced alarm after a video surfaced showing an individual allegedly using drugs openly on Pattaya Beach near Walking Street, an area heavily frequented by Thai and foreign tourists, Feb 12.
The video, recorded shortly after midnight, shows a person described by witnesses as a transgender woman sitting near a concrete barrier by a wastewater pit less than 100 meters from Walking Street. The individual appeared to be using illegal drugs in full view of passers-by, prompting concerns over public safety and the city’s tourist image.
The footage was provided to the media by a local motorcycle taxi driver, who said he has repeatedly seen the same individual in the area engaging in similar behavior. Despite being asked to leave on several occasions, the person reportedly returned, leading him to record the video as evidence in hopes authorities would take action.
Journalists who visited the location afterward found the area still crowded with tourists. Items believed to be related to drug use were discovered near the barrier.
The individual in the video, identified only by a nickname, Pam, and aged 26, was later found lying on the beach and appeared disoriented. She admitted to using crystal methamphetamine, saying it was purchased nearby. Witnesses said she showed no fear of being reported and continued to behave erratically.
A sanitation worker in the area said the individual is frequently seen at the same spot and often becomes loud and aggressive, causing fear among workers and families nearby. She urged relevant agencies to urgently address the issue.
Residents and workers in the area are calling on police and related authorities to investigate and enforce the law, warning that repeated incidents of this nature could undermine safety and damage Pattaya’s reputation as a major international tourist destination.
