The 45-second clip, widely shared on social media this week, shows a group of male foreign tourists behaving recklessly during heavy traffic on Thaweewong Rd, along the Patong beachfront.
In the video, one man is seen sitting on the roof of a moving tuk-tuk while two others follow behind on another vehicle, filming the incident. The man on the roof sways to loud music before jumping down and briefly falling onto the road, before quickly climbing back into the tuk-tuk.
The person who posted the video criticised the tourists’ actions, saying they had ignored repeated warnings not to climb onto the vehicle.
“You were having fun, but you didn’t listen even when you were told not to. You secretly climbed up there. The driver didn’t even know you were sitting on the roof,” the post stated.
“The driver is the one suffering. Is it worth the fare? If you’re drunk, at least be moderate. You’re causing endless trouble. I told them not to go up there, but they still did.”
Following the video’s release, netizens reacted strongly, with most comments condemning the behaviour. Many criticised the tourists for ignoring safety risks and disrespecting local drivers, while others said such actions damaged Thailand’s reputation as a tourist destination.
Some comments went further, expressing frustration at what they described as reckless behaviour that locals would never consider acceptable.
The incident has reignited debate over tourist conduct in busy resort areas, particularly concerning public transport safety and the responsibility of visitors to respect local laws and customs.
Patong Police confirmed to The Phuket News that no action has been taken to track down the tourists involved, as the tuk-tuk driver has not filed an official complaint.
Police noted that without a formal complaint from the driver or evidence of injury or damage, no investigation has been initiated at this time.