PHUKET — A Belarusian tourist has formally apologized to Karon police officers nearly a month after a public disturbance incident in Phuket.
Siarhei, 39, accompanied by his private attorney, presented a gift basket to officers at the Karon Police Station on January 7. Police Colonel Kundet Na Nongkhai, Superintendent of Karon Police Station, and Police Lieutenant Colonel Wiwat Chamnankit, Deputy Superintendent, graciously accepted the gesture, taking photos with Siarhei in a cordial atmosphere.
Speaking through his attorney, Siarhei expressed remorse for his actions, explaining that he had been severely intoxicated and unable to control himself during the incident. He emphasized that he never intended to harm the officers and acknowledged the negative impact his behavior had on tourism.
“If the court orders community service, I am willing to comply,” Siarhei stated. “I love Phuket because the local people’s smiles bring me joy. I will definitely return to visit Phuket again, but I promise this behavior won’t be repeated.”
The incident occurred on December 11 at approximately 3:00 a.m., when police responded to reports of a disturbance near a beachfront hotel in Karon. Officers found Siarhei, wearing only underwear, causing a commotion. Despite his wife’s attempts to calm him down, the situation escalated as he resisted arrest and damaged police property. The arrest took about 20 minutes to complete.
Siarhei faces charges of public intoxication and disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and assaulting police officers. Police Colonel Kundet noted that officers initially attempted to resolve the situation with minimal force but had to call for backup due to the suspect’s physical resistance.
The incident impacted Siarhei’s family, as his wife and children were forced to return to their home country due to their visas expiring on December 11, leaving Siarhei behind to face legal proceedings.
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