PATTAYA, Thailand – A controversial incident unfolded on Pattaya’s busy streets this past weekend when several Indian tourists were reportedly struck with sticks by Thai men riding motorbikes after allegedly obstructing the roadway.
Eyewitnesses claimed the tourists were walking in groups along the road in South Pattaya, ignoring oncoming traffic and causing motorbikes and cars to swerve dangerously. The confrontation escalated when two Thai men on motorcycles stopped, shouted at the group to move aside, and then allegedly struck a few of them with wooden sticks before driving off. No serious injuries were reported, but the incident has ignited fierce debate online.
Videos of the clash circulated quickly on Thai social media, drawing a wave of both condemnation and surprising support. Some local residents and drivers shared their frustrations about groups of tourists, particularly from South Asia, walking in the middle of roads instead of using sidewalks.
One comment summed up the sentiment among many locals: “A cricket bat is better.” Another sarcastically added, “Isn’t hitting those idiots a bonus point??” with someone else replying, “Yes. Compulsory.”
Others pointed to deeper issues in Pattaya’s infrastructure. “If the sidewalks were in good repair or not taken up by street vendors then people would perhaps walk on them,” one user said. “Sometimes it’s not possible to pass, then you help with the mirror,” added another, referring to nudging pedestrians out of the way with side mirrors. One frustrated motorbike driver even admitted, “I have damaged my bike’s mirrors hitting a few of them in the belly.”
Some felt the incident, while aggressive, was a wake-up call. “I confess to having to swerve to avoid a group of them who just walked in front of my car towards me… I see no wrong here. Maybe they need to remember they aren’t in India no more and most countries walk on the pavement on the side of the road, single file.”
While authorities have yet to confirm if charges will be filed, the incident has highlighted rising tensions between local residents and tourists over behavior in public spaces. The Pattaya police have reportedly increased patrols in key tourist areas to prevent further confrontations.
Tourism officials, however, warn that vigilante justice does more harm than good. “It is not an added value in the tourism sector to have these people in your country,” said one critical observer, questioning both the behavior of the tourists and the aggressive local response.
As Pattaya continues to welcome millions of visitors annually, the city may need to rethink how it manages pedestrian space, road safety, and cross-cultural etiquette before the situation escalates further.
