PHUKET, Thailand – A chaotic early morning incident unfolded in Patong on Tuesday, February 4th, when an intoxicated French motorbike rider driving the wrong way collided with a police officer, leaving both the officer and the rider injured. The accident occurred on Phra Mettha Road, a busy thoroughfare in the popular tourist district of Patong.

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At approximately 7:14 A.M., Patong Police were alerted to the crash and swiftly arrived at the scene. Officers found a damaged traffic police motorbike and its rider, Sergeant Major Paradon (last name withheld), who had sustained multiple injuries. The French national, identified by police only as Mohammed, was also injured in the collision and appeared to be under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident.

According to preliminary investigations, the French rider was traveling in the wrong direction on the road, a violation of traffic laws that significantly increased the risk of an accident. Sergeant Major Paradon, who was on duty at the time, was unable to avoid the collision due to the rider’s reckless behavior. Both individuals were immediately transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. The extent of their injuries has not been fully disclosed, but authorities confirmed that neither sustained life-threatening injuries.

A French tourist, Mr. Mohammed, crossed lanes on his motorcycle and collided with a traffic police officer outside Bangkok Bank on Phra Metta Road in Patong, Phuket on Tuesday morning, February 4. https://t.co/5Odz2zbv9S #RoadAccident #patong #phuket #thailand pic.twitter.com/vMJs8QBdkZ

— Khaosod English (@KhaosodEnglish) February 4, 2025

The incident has sparked concerns about road safety in Phuket, particularly in areas frequented by tourists. Driving under the influence of alcohol and violating traffic rules are persistent issues in the region, often leading to accidents that endanger both locals and visitors. Patong Police have reiterated the importance of adhering to traffic laws and warned against driving while intoxicated.

The French rider is expected to face multiple charges, including driving under the influence, reckless driving, and causing injury due to negligence. Authorities are also investigating whether the rider possessed a valid international driving permit and whether additional violations, such as improper insurance coverage, may apply.

Local officials have pledged to increase patrols and crack down on traffic violations to prevent similar accidents in the future.

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Further updates on the condition of Sergeant Major Paradon and the legal proceedings against the French rider are anticipated as the investigation progresses.

-Thailand News (TN)