PAI — Four Israeli tourists were arrested and fined after causing disturbances at Pai Hospital in Mae Hong Son province, police reported on February 6. The incident gained attention after a doctor posted about recurring harassment issues on the “AggressiveDoctor” Facebook page.
“These tourists regularly smoke on hospital property, steal items, and have damaged our emergency room doors,” the doctor wrote on Feb. 4. “They’ve set up unauthorized driving schools despite having no licenses, leading to frequent accidents. When they do come for treatment, they often refuse basic medical procedures like blood tests and wound care, making it extremely difficult for our staff to help them.”
The post garnered significant public support, with many readers sharing similar experiences. Despite initial hesitation from local authorities concerned about tourism impact, the severity of the incidents prompted police investigation.
The tourists, identified as Daniel, Aviv, Or, and Dan, allegedly intimidated medical personnel and attempted to enter restricted areas on February 2. After reviewing security footage that confirmed these violations, Pai police officers brought the four tourists to the police station. Each was fined 3,000 baht for harassment and causing public disturbance.
Police Lieutenant General Trairong Phiwphan, Commander of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau, investigated the incident following the viral social media post. Subsequently, Immigration Police Commander Lieutenant General Phanumas Boonyalak ordered the revocation of their permits and deportation on Feb. 6.
In response to the incident, Mae Hong Son Governor Ekkawit Meepian issued an open letter to international tourists visiting Pai district. The letter, titled “Welcome to Pai,” emphasizes responsible tourism and outlines guidelines covering cultural respect, legal compliance, social consideration, and environmental protection.
“We are delighted to welcome you and share our home with you,” wrote Governor Ekkawit, while stressing the importance of respecting local traditions and regulations. His guidelines ask visitors to honor local culture, follow laws, maintain the town’s tranquility, and protect its natural environment.
The case has highlighted tensions between some foreign tourists and local healthcare workers in the popular northern Thailand destination, prompting authorities to take stronger measures to ensure responsible tourism practices.
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