A foreign woman collapsed on Phuket’s Bangla Road on November 27 after reportedly consuming a cannabis-infused snack, drawing concern from bystanders and rescue teams who were unable to assist due to objections from her companion. The incident has raised fresh discussions about tourist safety and the risks associated with consuming cannabis products in Thailand.
According to reports, a local business operator on the busy nightlife street contacted the Patong Development Foundation after witnessing the woman lose consciousness. Rescue workers arrived shortly afterward and found her lying on the ground as a crowd of Thai and foreign onlookers gathered. Some filmed the moment, while others appeared unsure how to help.
Members of the foundation attempted to approach and provide first aid, but a foreign man believed to be the woman’s boyfriend allegedly refused their assistance. Photos shared online show him trying to wake her and encourage her to stand, though she appeared unable to respond. Due to his refusal, rescue workers said they could only monitor the situation from a distance. The foundation did not release further details about the woman’s condition or how the situation eventually resolved.
The Phuket Info Centre posted a public reminder urging people to accept medical help when needed and to contact rescue services immediately in emergencies, especially in tourist-heavy areas where incidents can escalate quickly.
This episode follows a similar case reported just last week in Krabi, where an Indian travel blogger said she and her friend were hospitalised after consuming cannabis gummies. The pair received IV treatment, slept for several hours, missed their flight home, and ended up with a hospital bill of 36,000 baht. The blogger initially accused the hospital and a cannabis shop of scamming tourists by selling edibles that resulted in costly medical care.
However, her claims drew swift backlash from Thai netizens. Many pointed out that she chose to purchase and consume the gummies herself and noted that private hospital fees in Thailand are often expensive for both locals and foreigners. Following the widespread criticism, the blogger publicly apologised to the hospital and clarified that she did not intend to create misunderstandings.
These recent incidents highlight ongoing debates around cannabis products in Thailand, especially among tourists who may underestimate their potency or effects. Although cannabis was decriminalised in certain contexts, regulations remain complex, and accidental overconsumption has become more common in popular tourist areas.
Local officials and rescue groups continue to stress the importance of caution and responsible behavior. They also urge companions of affected individuals to cooperate with medical teams to ensure proper care is given swiftly.
As Phuket enters its high tourism season, authorities are expected to increase safety monitoring on Bangla Road and other entertainment areas to prevent further incidents and ensure timely access to emergency assistance.
