An altercation involving two Singaporean tourists and a hotel security guard in Patong turned violent on Tuesday, August 15, resulting in injuries to all three individuals, who were subsequently hospitalized.
The incident occurred at the north end of Bangla Road at approximately 7:18 AM and was first reported by a passerby who witnessed the assault. Officers from the Patong Police Station quickly responded, reviewing CCTV footage from a nearby camera before arriving at the scene.
The Attack on Naeaaf Al Otajbi
The victim, 32-year-old Naeaaf Al Otajbi, was found sitting on the side of the road in a dazed state. According to his account, which matched the CCTV footage, he was on his way back to his rented accommodation when two men suddenly approached and physically assaulted him.
Otajbi stated that the assailants initially struck him on the head several times, causing him to fall to the ground. The attackers continued their assault by kicking him in the head and body, with one of them even stomping on his head.
The CCTV footage revealed that one of the attackers approached from behind, while the second, dressed like a motorbike taxi driver, ran across the road to join in the assault. A third individual also appeared on the scene, although the footage did not capture him delivering any blows to Otajbi.
Aftermath and Response
Following the attack, the assailants dispersed, with the motorbike taxi driver crossing the road back to where he had come from. Volunteers from the Phuket Kusoldharm Foundation provided basic first aid to Otajbi at the scene before transporting him to Patong Hospital for further treatment.
After receiving medical attention, Otajbi went to Patong Police Station to file an official complaint regarding the incident.
Ongoing Investigation
As of the latest reports, no further details have been provided about the motive behind the attack or the identities of the assailants. The police are continuing their investigation into the incident to determine the cause of the altercation and to apprehend those responsible.
This violent incident has raised concerns about safety in the popular tourist area of Patong, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and prompt response by local authorities to ensure the safety of both tourists and residents.
