Patong Police noted that the incident began inside the Amfine pub, where a dispute between a group of Kuwaiti tourists and three Thai women escalated at about 4am.
The confrontation allegedly started when one of the Thai women threw alcohol at a female Kuwaiti tourist, leading to a heated exchange between the two groups.
After the pub closed, the argument spilled into the street. The video posted online showed one of the Thai women slapping one of the tourists on the head. The tourist, a man, swung a leg at the woman in a poor attempt to kick her while he was being held back.
As the tourists were walking away, the same woman is seen chasing after them and began hitting the tourists with what appeared to be her shoes. Some people were seen trying to dissuade her, but to no avail.
The conflict continued further down the street out of clear view, with bystanders plainly seen trying to keep the two groups apart.
One young man, seemingly Thai, is seen carrying a knife and pointing it at people in a threatening manner.
Local patrol officers intervened and managed to separate the parties involved, escorting them to the police station for further investigation.
The video clip, which lasts 1 minute and 39 seconds, was shared on a popular Phuket-based social media page, sparking outrage among viewers. The post criticised the lack of law enforcement in the area and called for stricter measures to maintain order on Bangla Rd. Some commenters expressed disbelief at the chaos, likening the scene to a "bunch of monkeys fighting."
Pol Lt Col Narupon Phruethinon, Inspector at Patong Police Station, was alerted to the situation and immediately reported it to Patong Police Chief col Chalermchai Hirsawat,
As the investigation continues, local residents and tourists alike are calling for improved security and stricter enforcement of laws on Soi Bangla Rd.
The incident has once again highlighted the challenges faced by popular tourist destinations in maintaining safety and order amidst the influx of visitors, and the consequences of the extended 4am closing time.