Phuket horror: Tourist bludgeoned by rider over route dispute (video)

A Norwegian tourist’s dream holiday turned into a nightmare when he was viciously attacked by a ride-hailing driver in Phuket. The shocking incident, which occurred in the early hours of December 30, left the tourist battered and bruised, sparking a heated debate about passenger safety.

A Thai woman, 44 year old Thanatphon Khongcharoen, accompanied her friend, 57 year old Egil Christian Andresen, to Karon Police Station to report the harrowing ordeal. Andresen claims the violent outburst stemmed from a disagreement about his destination.

The trouble began at 5.05am when the tourist requested a short ride to his accommodation near Patak Soi 1, Karon, Mueang Phuket district, Phuket, just a kilometre from the pick-up point outside a jewellery store. However, the driver allegedly asked if he intended to travel to Phuket International Airport instead. Confused by the query, Andresen decided to exit the vehicle. That’s when the situation escalated.

“The driver grabbed a sign and struck me several times.”

The attack left him with cuts and bruises on his left temple, ear, face, and elbows, forcing him to seek medical attention. Fortunately, CCTV footage has been provided to the police as evidence.

Andresen expressed his disbelief.

“I’ve been a taxi driver in Norway for over 30 years. Such behaviour would lead to a lifetime licence ban in my country.”

Despite the traumatic event, Andresen praised Phuket’s natural beauty and his previously peaceful experiences on the island. He remains optimistic that police will deliver justice, reported ASEAN NOW.

Local police have launched an investigation to identify the suspect, igniting concerns about the conduct of ride-hailing drivers in the region.