Pattaya —
Residents in Pattaya are urging authorities to take action after a street vendor reportedly harassed beachgoers who declined to purchase his goods at Pattaya and Jomtien beaches.
On August 10th, 2024, local reporters received a complaint from tourists at Pattaya and Jomtien beaches, along with a video showing a confrontation with a Thai, male street vendor.
In the video, the vendor aggressively pressured tourists to buy snacks from him, and when they refused, he verbally abused them and threw items at them in frustration, tarnishing Pattaya’s world class tourist-friendly reputation.
According to the tourists, the incident occurred on the evening of August 9th, 2024. An unidentified Thai tourist was relaxing on Jomtien Beach when he was approached by the vendor who tried to sell him snacks. After the tourist declined, the vendor reacted angrily, throwing the snacks on the ground and starting arguing with the tourist.
The reporters stated that this vendor typically sells snacks on Jomtien Beach and is known for often having conflicts with tourists. When tourists refuse to purchase anything from him, he often becomes abusive. It was also reported that the vendor uses any money made to buy alcohol.
Local residents are urging relevant authorities to address the issue urgently. They suggest authorities have discussions with the vendor to improve his attitude, as his behavior could severely damage Pattaya’s tourism image.
Update:
The vendor was found by authorities today, August 11st, and identified as 58-year-old Mr. Phuwanon Srisuriyanyothin. He apologized for his actions and promised to act nicer with tourists.
Meanwhile, the authorities said they could charge Mr. Phuwanon for breaking the Cleanliness Act if he still harasses tourists.
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