PHUKET – A foreign driver has sparked widespread public condemnation after a video of his dangerous driving in Phuket’s Patong area went viral on Thai social media. The footage, recorded on October 18 and circulated the following day, shows a luxury car being driven aggressively through congested traffic, drawing accusations of reckless behavior that endangered public safety.

Icelandic Driver Faces Charges for Reckless Drifting in Chonburi

The widely shared video, initially posted by a local motorist, features a white Porsche 718 Boxster with Phuket registration. The foreign driver, accompanied by a woman believed to be his girlfriend, was seen repeatedly revving the engine, accelerating sharply, and weaving between lanes without signaling. Witnesses reported that the vehicle frequently cut off other motorists, with the driver braking abruptly when unable to proceed further in heavy traffic.

The incident, occurring around 7:00 PM, triggered intense online criticism, with many Thai netizens condemning the actions as irresponsible and dangerous. The public response included calls for authorities to take immediate action against the driver, with some social media users questioning whether enforcement would be equally rigorous if the offender were a local driver in an ordinary vehicle. This sentiment highlighted broader concerns about potential bias in traffic law enforcement.

Saudi National Arrested in Phuket for Reckless Driving

Conversely, some commentators expressed concern that circulating such videos could damage Thailand’s tourism reputation. They advocated for reporting dangerous driving directly to police rather than publicizing incidents on social media platforms. Under Section 43(3) of Thailand’s Land Transport Act, the driver could face a fine of 400 to 1,000 baht for reckless driving if identified by authorities. While police have not yet located the motorist, the incident has intensified public debate about the necessity for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations.

-Thailand News (TN)