BANGKOK, Thailand – Minister Attached to the Prime Minister’s Office Supamas Isarabhakdi has ordered close monitoring of a case involving a ride-hailing driver accused of assaulting a 52-year-old Japanese tourist in Bangkok’s Asok area. According to the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB), the case has concluded with the suspect admitting wrongdoing and the victim receiving 35,000 baht in compensation. The 23-year-old suspect appeared before investigators and admitted responsibility for the incident, which occurred after he allegedly forced the passenger to leave the vehicle before reaching the destination. The victim declined settlement discussions and chose to pursue legal action. Police filed charges of assault causing injury, using a vehicle in a manner inconsistent with its registered classification, and operating a public-service vehicle without a valid license.
Representatives of the ride-hailing platform later offered compensation totaling 35,000 baht, including 5,000 baht for medical expenses and 30,000 baht in additional assistance. Officials said the case falls under consumer protection laws, which provide the same legal protections to foreign visitors and Thai citizens. Supamas has directed the OCPB to summon the platform operator on June 5 to explain its driver-screening procedures, passenger protection measures, and disciplinary policies. The agency will also hold a meeting on June 12 with all 13 ride-hailing platforms operating in Thailand, along with relevant agencies, to discuss standards related to driver qualifications, passenger safety, fare practices, and regulatory compliance. Officials said only three of the 13 operators have fully registered their public-service vehicles in accordance with legal requirements. (NNT)
