BANGKOK, Thailand – Minister Attached to the Prime Minister’s Office Supamas Isarabhakdi has ordered the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB) to assist a Japanese tourist who was allegedly forced out of a vehicle and assaulted by a driver operating through a ride-hailing application in the Asok area. The directive was issued following reports that the driver prematurely terminated the trip after claiming the fare did not justify the distance traveled, resulting in an altercation with the tourist. Under the 1979 Consumer Protection Act, consumers are entitled to legal protection regardless of nationality. Passengers have the right to receive services safely, be treated fairly, and seek compensation when harm occurs. In this case, the tourist was denied those protections after having booked and paid for a transportation service.
The OCPB has summoned the ride-hailing platform to provide explanations on June 5 and will review its driver screening procedures, disciplinary measures, and consumer protection policies. The agency will also seek compensation for the victim. In addition, the OCPB is scheduled to meet with around 13 operators of similar transportation platforms on June 12 to discuss common standards and oversight measures across the sector. Minister Supamas has also instructed the OCPB to coordinate with the Royal Thai Police to locate and prosecute the driver, the Department of Land Transport on vehicle and driver licensing matters, and the Electronic Transactions Development Agency on platform oversight. OCPB officials will provide legal assistance to the victim and submit a progress report within 30 days. Citizens who experience consumer rights violations may contact the OCPB through its hotline, application, website, or Damrongdhama Centers, while foreign visitors requiring urgent assistance can contact the Tourist Police hotline 1155. (NNT)
