A 67-year-old motorbike taxi driver in Pattaya was violently attacked after a dispute with a female rider over passenger pick-up regulations. The confrontation, which escalated into a physical assault involving two young men, has sparked public outrage and renewed concerns about the growing tensions between motorbike taxi operators and alternative riders in the city.
The incident took place early Tuesday morning in Soi Chalermprakiat 21, located off Pattaya Third Road. According to the victim, who has impaired vision in one eye, the conflict began when he asked a female rider to move slightly down the road before collecting passengers. The request, he said, was in accordance with local rules meant to prevent congestion and ensure safety at designated pick-up points.
Although the initial interaction ended without incident, the situation took a dangerous turn shortly afterward. The elderly driver reported that two young men, believed to be companions of the female rider, approached him aggressively. One of the men allegedly carried a knife, while both proceeded to kick and beat him. The attack left the driver with multiple injuries, including a dislocated shoulder.
Despite his weakened condition, the driver managed to retreat from the assailants. A nearby resident intervened after hearing the commotion, helping the injured man escape the attack. The victim was later transported to a hospital for treatment, where doctors confirmed his injuries and monitored his condition.
Authorities quickly secured CCTV footage from the area, along with photographs taken by witnesses during and after the altercation. The footage reportedly shows key moments in the assault, providing police with valuable leads. Investigators are now working to identify the two men believed to be directly involved, as well as to question the female rider who was present earlier during the dispute.
Local officials have expressed concern over the attack, emphasizing that violence of this nature is unacceptable—especially against an elderly member of the community. The case also highlights ongoing friction between traditional motorbike taxi drivers and independent riders operating through mobile ride-hailing platforms, an issue that has led to several disputes in recent years.
Residents and social media users have called for swift justice, arguing that the attack reflects a wider problem of disrespect and aggression toward longstanding local transport workers. Many also urged authorities to strengthen enforcement of motorbike taxi regulations and improve safety measures at common pick-up zones.
Police have stated that they are prioritizing the case and expect to make progress soon, given the quality of the recovered evidence. They are urging anyone with additional information or witness accounts to come forward to assist the investigation.
For now, the elderly driver continues to recover from his injuries, while the community awaits updates on the search for the suspects responsible for the shocking assault.
