A scandal has erupted on the popular Thai resort island of Phuket over an alleged assault by a Swiss citizen on a local resident. This story caused a wide public outcry and provoked mass protests among the local population. More than five hundred people gathered on Yamu beach in Thalang district to express their outrage and demand the expulsion of the foreigner from the country.
According to investigators, a 45-year-old Swiss man named Urs Fer, also known as David, allegedly kicked 26-year-old doctor Thandao Chandam in the back as she sat on the steps leading to the beach. The incident took place on the evening of February 24 near the villa where the Swiss man resides with his Thai wife. In addition, the injured woman was also allegedly insulted by the accused's wife.
Angry locals and activists staged a protest at the scene, chanting slogans like "Get out, David!" and demanding that public access to the beach be restored. Some demonstrators held Thailand's national flags and sang the country's anthem, emphasizing their patriotism and rejection of such behavior by foreigners.
Fighting for public beaches and calls for stricter measures
In addition to outrage at the alleged attack itself, protesters expressed concern about the broader problem of private owners and developers taking over public beaches and areas. Many locals recalled how they used to walk freely on Yamu Beach, but after the construction of housing estates, access was denied.
Suhart Jorasakul, 56, one of the protesters, said they were demanding that authorities clearly delineate between private properties and public areas and restore free access to Yamu Beach, which is legally a public domain. "Foreigners are taking over too much territory," Suhart complained.
The rally was also attended by activists from the People's Movement for a Just Society, who held placards calling for the return of public access to the beaches. The problem is not new to Phuket and other resort regions in Thailand, where the interests of local residents often clash with the appetites of developers and wealthy foreign residents.
Reaction of the authorities and further actions
The incident with the Swiss has attracted the attention of the highest echelons of the Thai authorities. Phuket Police Chief Maj. Gen. Sinlert Sukhum said that the authorities will consider drawing up a "blacklist" of foreigners and canceling visas of those who violate the law on the island. The head of the national police, Gen. Torsak Sukwimol, ordered a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the attack and to gather all the facts against the Swiss man.
In addition, Gen. Torsak has ordered an investigation into the Phuket Police itself, which reportedly takes bribes from foreigners, allowing them to engage in illegal activities. The decision is intended to ensure transparency in the process and prevent accusations of covering up wrongdoing.
Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul warned foreign residents to comply with Thailand's laws or their visas would be revoked. Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha has also instructed relevant agencies to strengthen measures to ensure foreigners comply with laws.
So far, the Swiss man has been charged with assault, which he denies, claiming he tripped accidentally. However, the wave of protests and the involvement of top officials in the scandal indicate the seriousness of the situation and could lead to tougher measures against foreign residents who violate Thai law.
Author of the article: Ekaterina Antonova
