Dutch biker killed in Phuket collision
MAI KHAO, PHUKET: Dutchman Klaas Verbeek was killed and his Thai passenger seriously injured when the motorbike they were riding collided with a pickup truck driven by a policeman in Tah Chat Chai early yesterday evening.
Mr Verbeek, 53, was an annual visitor to Phuket for at least 15 years and was highly regarded in Phuket’s expat community.
His body is being held at Thalang Hospital.
His friend and compatriot Edwin Van Der Mosselaar said Mr Verbeek’s family in central Holland are aware of his passing and have hired a lawyer to ensure the investigation and repatriation of his remains runs smoothly.
Mr Van Der Mosselaar, who flew back to Phuket from Chaing Mai after hearing the news, said he would help Mr Verbeek’s family in Holland.
Mr Verbeek’s passenger, a Thai woman nicknamed ‘Pla’, is currently being treated at Vachira Phuket Hospital.
She is thought to be in serious condition, though the extent of her injuries is not yet known.
Mr Van Der Mosselaar said Mr Verbeek was scheduled to have dental work done today.
He was a responsible man and never drove a motorbike after drinking alcohol, said Mr Van Der Mosselaar.
The crash occurred at about 5pm.
Tah Chat Chai Police said the pickup involved in the crash was driven by a former Tah Chat Chai police officer.
Dutch Embassy staff said they were aware of the tragedy but were still awaiting official notification as of 4pm today.
— Gazette Reporters
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