KHON KAEN — A viral video showing a foreign man assaulting a tuk-tuk driver in Khon Kaen while traveling along Sri Chan Road has been resolved. The incident, which occurred on Monday, ended with the driver choosing not to press charges after receiving compensation.
The assault took place at 1:30 p.m. on November 25 near the Khon Kaen City Pillar Shrine roundabout. The foreign passenger suddenly struck the driver and grabbed his collar several times during the journey to Khon Kaen Gate.
The driver, Mr. Thongpoon Tawisut, a resident of Moo 15, Ban Pet sub-district in Khon Kaen, regularly picks up passengers in front of a famous hotel in the city. In an interview about the viral clip, he revealed that he has known this foreign customer for over 10 years, describing him as usually friendly but aggressive when drunk and stressed.
Thongpoon explained that he regularly drives this passenger and had just taken him to a bar that morning. While the man has a history of violent behavior when drunk, this incident was the most severe. “When he grabbed my collar, I was really scared. He pulled so hard that my shirt tore and my head hit the metal roof, causing an abrasion,” he said.
Following the incident, the foreigner and his family apologized and reached an amicable settlement. The family offered compensation, which Thongpoon accepted though he hadn’t requested it.
“I need to make a living, so I’ll take any customer. I harbor no ill feelings, and if this foreigner needs a ride again, I’m willing to serve him as usual since I understand his nature,” Thongpoon stated.
Local drivers are well aware of the foreigner’s behavior, with several having experienced similar but less severe incidents. They note that while such behavior wouldn’t be tolerated from other customers, they understand this particular individual’s temperament, adding that no other customers have exhibited such behavior.
____________
