A shocking incident in Phuket, Thailand, has left people outraged after a group of Kuwaiti tourists was caught on video brutally attacking local lifeguards at Nai Harn Beach. The incident took place on Monday when strong rip currents and rough waves made the sea unsafe for swimming. Lifeguards had already raised red warning flags and repeatedly advised tourists to stay out of the water for their safety. However, instead of listening, the Kuwaiti visitors reportedly became angry, spat at the lifeguards and then launched a violent physical assault. The confrontation quickly escalated and despite trying to defend himself, he sustained injuries. The shocking video of the brawl spread rapidly on social media drawing widespread anger from viewers across the world.
Local authorities reacted strongly. Rawai Mayor Thems Kratadsan condemned the behaviour of the tourists by describing them as “low-quality” and warning that such incidents bring shame to Phuket while putting local residents at risk. Police confirmed that the group involved were Kuwaiti nationals. Following discussions with officials, the tourists agreed to pay 200,000 baht, which is approximately ₹5.4 lakh, to cover the injured lifeguard’s medical expenses and damages. They also agreed to meet municipal officials to deliver a formal apology and to take responsibility for their misconduct.
The viral clip has triggered an uproar on social media with many people demanding stronger consequences. Several commenters called for the tourists to be jailed, deported and permanently banned from re-entering Thailand. They argued that such disrespectful and violent behaviour towards lifeguards should not be tolerated. Others pointed out that lifeguards risk their lives daily to save others and attacking them for enforcing safety guidelines is unacceptable.
The attack has reignited concerns about the rising problem of misbehaving tourists in Thailand where local communities often complain about visitors showing disrespect for rules and culture. While the compensation may bring some closure to the affected lifeguard, the incident has left a mark on Phuket’s tourism image and sparked debates about whether stricter rules and harsher punishments should be imposed to prevent such events in the future.
