
CHONBURI — The Chonburi Provincial Police Commander is responding to allegations made in a Daily Mail article about the treatment of a British tourist in Pattaya, stating the report misrepresented facts about Thai police operations.
Andrew Hopkins, 55, claimed he was assaulted, detained for 36 hours, and forced to pay 15,000 baht after accidentally damaging a condominium sign on November 22, 2024. However, CCTV footage presented by police shows Hopkins intoxicated and deliberately damaging property at Hipark Residence condominium.

At a press conference at Pattaya City Police Station on February 4, Police Major General Thawatchakiat Jindakhuansanong revealed that Hopkins was arrested for drunk and disorderly conduct, fined 100 baht, and released. The police chief denied allegations of extortion, stating all of Hopkins’ belongings were properly documented and returned.
After his release, Hopkins reportedly returned to the condominium, causing further disturbance that prompted residents to call police again.
The police commander announced plans to send a formal letter to the British Embassy to address the misleading reporting and protect Pattaya’s reputation. He emphasized that all procedures followed legal protocols and were conducted transparently.
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