Bar bill brawl in Pattaya: Injured British tourist comes forward (2024)

Photo courtesy of Pattaya News

In a dramatic incident that captivated social media and sparked intense debate, three British tourists were violently assaulted by contracted guards following a heated argument over a bill on Pattaya Soi 6. The Pattaya police said there was nothing they could do about the brutal assault on the British men unless they came forward and lodged a complaint.

Today, May 30, the Brit who was kicked in the head came forward and filed a complaint with Pattaya Police.

The shocking event, captured on video, has raised serious safety concerns and tarnished the family-friendly image of the popular tourist destination, according to Pattaya Police.

On the evening of May 24, a dispute erupted between British tourists and security guards overseeing local bars on Soi 6. The altercation, initially sparked by a disagreement over a drinks bill, quickly escalated. One tourist was seen shoving another customer who was trying to defuse the situation, which only intensified the conflict. The confrontation turned violent, leaving the tourists battered and bruised.

Footage of a guard brutally kicking a tourist in the head while he lay on the ground caused outrage worldwide. The guard claimed the tourist had attacked him first, breaking his nose, which sparked the fight. Speculations about the tourist being seriously injured or in a coma circulated online but were proven false.

The victim, identified as 42 year old British national Bryce Mahoney, later told Pattaya Police that he managed to walk away mostly uninjured and returned to his hotel.

Remarkably, Mahoney even went out drinking on Walking Street the same night. CCTV footage confirmed the tourists walking away from the fight. Pattaya Police Chief Police Colonel Navin Teerawit personally led the investigation, quickly detaining the perpetrators. However, they needed the victims’ testimonies to proceed with legal action and spent several days locating them.

Mahoney and his companion finally met with the police yesterday, recounting the events of the night. Mahoney, who was celebrating his birthday, admitted to being intoxicated and confirmed that the argument over the bill led to a violent clash with the guards. He filed a formal complaint, seeking legal action against the attackers.

One of Mahoney’s friends, seen shoving another customer on video, chose not to report the incident due to safety concerns and has reportedly left Pattaya. The contracted guards, operating independently and without official approval, now face legal action for their actions, reported Pattaya News.

Pattaya police urge tourists to call the Tourist Police at 1155 for impartial assistance in bill disputes, ensuring quick and fair resolution. The investigation continues, and additional charges may be filed against those involved.

ORIGINAL STORY: Security guards arrested after tourist assault in Pattaya

Pattaya City Police apprehended three security guards after a viral video captured them allegedly assaulting a tourist. The incident, which has caused widespread condemnation and raised concerns about Pattaya’s image as a tourist destination, occurred at approximately 11.36pm yesterday.

Police Colonel Navin Teerawit, superintendent of Pattaya City Police Station, led the operation to detain the suspects.

The individuals, identified as 27 year old Ball, 36 year old Tom, and 24 year old Ice were taken in for questioning and further legal action. These guards were reportedly part of a freelance group providing security for multiple bars, though they were not directly linked to any specific establishment.

The guards have admitted their involvement in the incident. Ball claimed he was initially assaulted by a tourist, which led to injuries requiring medical attention.

Despite this alleged provocation, the guards’ actions have been widely criticised as excessive, particularly since one guard was seen kicking a tourist in the head as he lay on the ground after being beaten.

Pol. Col. Navin reprimanded the guards, stressing that their primary duty is to ensure the safety of tourists, not to engage in violence. He emphasised the need for restraint and the importance of involving law enforcement to de-escalate conflicts.

“Security personnel must act professionally and maintain composure. Their actions directly impact Pattaya’s reputation as a safe and welcoming tourist destination.”

The superintendent ordered a strict legal follow-up to ensure the guards face the consequences of their actions. The investigation is supported by CCTV footage, which documents the escalation of the confrontation and serves as crucial evidence.

The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the conduct of security personnel in Pattaya, highlighting the delicate balance between maintaining order and preserving the city’s welcoming atmosphere for tourists.

Details of the legal charges against the guards have not been immediately disclosed by Pattaya police. Despite various rumours circulating online, the condition of the tourist who appeared to be kicked in the head remains unclear.

His friends, who were also present, have reportedly declined to file police reports or press charges, seemingly wanting to move past the incident. However, given the viral nature of the video, avoiding legal repercussions may no longer be possible, reported Pattaya News.

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