Phuket mayor demands jail for Kuwaiti tourists who violently attacked lifeguards at Nai Harn Beach, ignoring warnings, chasing, punching and spitting on them, prompting outrage as authorities vow full legal action and stricter beach safety enforcement.
A local Phuket mayor is demanding zero compromise and tougher police action after Kuwaiti tourists violently attacked two lifeguards at Nai Harn Beach last Monday. Both men and women from the group ignored warnings and lashed out when told not to swim. Lifeguards were chased, punched and spat on while trying to enforce safety rules. Dangerous offshore rip currents made the waters deadly. The attack has shocked locals and tourists alike. Shocked officials warn that Phuket’s rising death toll this year is linked to monsoon tides and reckless behaviour in hazardous conditions. They say incidents like this will not be tolerated and offenders will face full legal consequences for their lawless and barbaric outburst.
Rawai Mayor Thames Kraitat has vowed to pursue legal action after a shocking assault on lifeguards at Nai Harn Beach. On Monday, August 25, a group of foreign tourists spat on and physically attacked lifeguards who had warned them to exit dangerous waters. The confrontation occurred during a swimming ban due to Phuket’s monsoon-season conditions. Video footage of the incident quickly circulated online, sparking nationwide outrage.
The video shows tourists shouting, spitting and punching lifeguards after being asked to leave the surf. Despite repeated whistles and verbal warnings, the group ignored instructions. Witnesses reported verbal abuse escalating into physical violence.
Lifeguards were outnumbered but held their ground until attackers eventually dispersed with no serious injuries
Certainly, the lifeguards were outnumbered but held their ground until the attackers eventually dispersed. Thankfully, no serious injuries were reported.
Mayor Thames described the attack as “an insult to the dignity of Thai people.” He emphasised that the case cannot be resolved through negotiation or monetary compensation. “I will not tolerate this,” he stated firmly. “The dignity of Thai people cannot be valued in money. This case will be pursued to the fullest extent of the law. Furthermore, it must serve as a warning to prevent future violations.”
Reports indicate the tourists offered more than ฿200,000 to settle the matter. However, Mayor Thames rejected the offer, insisting lifeguards deserve full respect and support. He stressed that Phuket’s lifeguards are on duty to protect lives. Therefore, any attempt to bribe or intimidate them will not be tolerated.
Chalong Police Chief Pol Col Rungrit Rattanaphakdi confirmed that charges of assault had been filed. However, he declined to release further details. Earlier reports identified the tourists as Kuwaiti nationals, facing additional charges of property damage, resisting an officer and violating official orders.
Rawai Municipality will review lifeguard staffing and campaign to improve tourist awareness of beach safety
Following the attack, Rawai Municipality pledged to review lifeguard staffing and increase public awareness campaigns regarding beach safety rules.
The video quickly drew a flood of social media reactions. Thousands condemned the tourists’ behaviour. Many demanded prosecution, deportation and permanent bans from entering Thailand. Marine safety expert Daren Jenner, Thailand’s Marine Safety Commissioner and Section Chief of the International Surf Lifesaving Association, condemned the attack as “beyond the bounds of human decency.”
“By the video, it looks like some lifeguards took serious hits. They were clearly outnumbered,” Jenner said. “A serious fine, jail time and substantial compensation are necessary. Otherwise, future incidents will increase.” He also recommended that Phuket consider lifeguard supervisors with authority to detain unruly tourists who ignore life-saving warnings.
Despite the attack, Nai Harn lifeguards remain committed to their duties. “We work very hard at this beach,” one lifeguard said. “Everyone must adhere strictly to the rules. This year, there have been no fatalities.”
He was referring to that area and beachfront on the southern tip of the island.
“Our total is still zero. We will continue our work, regardless of threats.” Officials warned that strong rip currents continue to endanger lives along Phuket’s west coast each monsoon season. “I send support to all officers protecting public safety,” another lifeguard added. “Respect the rules so the sea remains a place of happiness, not loss.”
Attack and social media outrage highlight tourists ignoring red flags and targeting the lifeguards with anger
The Thai Examiner reported on Thursday, August 28, that the attack involved two lifeguards and Kuwaiti tourists ignoring red flags. The tourists chased, beat, and spat on the lifeguards, shocking bystanders.
On Wednesday, the attackers visited Rawai Municipality, apologised, and offered ฿200,000 to cover medical expenses. Yet public anger persisted, with many locals demanding arrests and deportation.
The confrontation began after lifeguards raised red flags, signalling dangerous conditions. However, the tourists ignored the warning and became hostile. First, they shouted at the lifeguards. Then, they escalated matters to physical attacks.
Video shows one tourist spitting directly at a lifeguard. Soon, multiple attackers threw punches. Even women from the group joined the assault. Lifeguards tried to retreat but were chased, tackled and repeatedly beaten. Observers described the scene as terrifying and brutal.
Phuket has experienced a deadly monsoon season since May 2025. Strong waves and hazardous conditions have claimed multiple lives.
Despite visible red flags and warnings, some tourists continue to swim. Alarmingly, some even film themselves ignoring safety measures. Consequently, lifeguards face growing stress and danger. Monday’s assault highlights the urgent need to protect these frontline workers.
Mayor vows justice and confirms full legal action against tourists despite the apology and monetary offer
Rawai Mayor Thames called the tourists “low-quality visitors” and stressed that such incidents happen far too often. He vowed to pursue justice fully, emphasising that Thailand will not tolerate violence against public safety personnel. “We must act to the fullest extent of the law,” he declared.
Chalong Police launched an official investigation on Tuesday, August 26. The tourists were summoned for questioning and confirmed as Kuwaiti nationals. The group eventually apologised and offered ฿200,000. Nevertheless, authorities stressed that a financial settlement does not resolve the matter. Legal proceedings under Thai law will continue and accountability will follow.
Support for the lifeguards poured in nationwide. Many praised their professionalism and calm under extreme pressure. Tourism officials also weighed in, reminding visitors that lifeguards are public safety officers. Ignoring instructions—or worse, attacking them—will not be tolerated. Cooperation is essential for everyone’s safety.
Local officials review safety rules and consider legal reforms to protect lifeguards on Phuket’s beaches
Phuket’s beaches have been unusually deadly this year. Drownings have occurred almost weekly since May. Tourists often underestimate the ocean’s strength during the rainy season. Despite red flags, some continue to swim, endangering themselves and others. Consequently, lifeguards face increasing danger while managing unpredictable ocean conditions and aggressive visitors.
Authorities are reviewing safety and enforcement procedures. Proposed measures include increased police presence on high-risk beaches, multilingual signage, and mandatory safety briefings.
Additionally, legal reforms are being considered to strengthen penalties for attacks on lifeguards. Both officers involved in Monday’s assault have returned to duty. Although still recovering, they continue to patrol Nai Harn Beach. Local leaders assured the public that full legal support will be provided.
Phuket attracts millions of tourists annually. However, safety must always come first. Red flags indicate imminent danger. Lifeguards are deployed to save lives, not to fight for themselves. Visitors must respect lifeguards and obey beach safety rules. Failure to do so endangers everyone.
Nai Harn assault highlights the urgent need for stricter enforcement and tourist adherence to safety rules
The Nai Harn assault highlights the broader challenge of tourism behaviour. Disregard for rules and violence against safety personnel threatens Phuket’s reputation. Local leaders are calling for stricter enforcement, harsher penalties, and stronger public awareness campaigns. Immediate action is necessary to prevent repetition.
Rawai Mayor Thames Kraitat’s firm stance, police investigations and increased safety measures reflect Thailand’s commitment to protect lives. Lifeguards continue to perform their duties despite risks.
Tourists must understand that disobeying safety rules carries legal consequences. Phuket authorities remain resolute: safety, respect and compliance are non-negotiable.
Authorities investigate Australian tourist death highlighting risks on land and at sea in Phuket
Meanwhile, authorities are also investigating the death of a 36-year-old Australian man found in a hotel room in Chalong on Wednesday, August 27.
Police were called at about 2:30 p.m. after staff discovered him motionless. Pol Lt Athit Thong-anan confirmed no signs of assault, but various substances were found in the room, including Viagra, sleeping pills, marijuana and alcohol.
A forensic doctor at the scene suggested that a drug overdose could be the cause of death. The body was taken to Vachira Phuket Hospital for further examination.
Chalong Police continue to investigate and have contacted the Australian Embassy. This incident underlines the importance of vigilance and responsible behaviour, both on land and at sea.
Both cases reveal that Phuket’s environment can be unpredictable and dangerous. Lifeguards and authorities are critical in preventing tragedy, while tourists must respect rules and officials. They must also be circumspect despite the mood in Thailand of letting their hair down and having a good time.
Officials reiterate that cooperation is essential, especially during the monsoon season. Lifeguards risk their lives daily to protect the public, and Monday’s attack illustrates the dangers they face when rules are ignored.
Phuket authorities warn tourists ignoring red flags or attacking lifeguards will face full legal consequences
Ultimately, Phuket’s message is clear. Red flags mean danger. Lifeguards are there to save lives, not to face violence. Tourists who ignore safety measures or attack officers will face legal consequences.
Authorities are committed to enforcing these rules strictly, ensuring beaches remain safe for all. Local leaders emphasise that protecting human life is paramount, and respect for public safety personnel is mandatory.
Lifeguards end up fighting for their own on Nai Harn Beach this Monday after Kuwaiti tourists saw red
Tragedy, heartache and real pain off Phuket’s idyllic beaches as more die and the Blue Dragon threatens
Phuket’s tourism relies on both visitor enjoyment and safety. The island’s holiday atmosphere and climate are what draw millions each year. Visitors nonetheless must follow the rules, heed warnings and respect lifeguards. Failure to comply not only endangers themselves but also threatens public safety. The events at Nai Harn Beach and recent fatalities highlight the critical importance of cooperation. Authorities remain vigilant, lifeguards remain on duty, and legal action will follow to protect lives.
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Further reading:
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