Tourists at a pub on Soi Cowboy street in Bangkok, Thailand. Photo by AFP
Nine employees at a karaoke bar in Chiang Mai, Thailand, have been arrested for assaulting a British tourist who refused to pay a bill totaling over 20,000 baht (US$615).
A video of the attack, which occurred on July 16 at the Diamond Karaoke Bar on Sri Donchai Road in the Chang Khlan Subdistrict of Mueang Chiang Mai District, quickly went viral on social media, sparking public outrage and raising concerns about Thailand’s tourism image.
Investigators at Chiang Mai City Police Station identified all nine suspects in the footage as staff members of the karaoke bar, Metro reported.
According to police, the 27-year-old British tourist had been using the karaoke services from night until the early hours of the next morning.
When presented with the bill, he reportedly became upset over what he believed were excessive charges, which led to an argument, Khaosod English news site reported.
As he attempted to leave and return to his accommodation, the staff, believing he was trying to avoid payment, physically restrained him and demanded he settle the bill. When he refused, they proceeded to assault him.
Police revealed that the establishment was operating without a proper license and had been serving alcohol past legal hours.
Authorities have since ordered the venue to shut down.
All nine employees have admitted to using force against the tourist and are facing charges of joint assault.
-
Blinkit, Zepto delivery boys earn more than freshers at Infosys and TCS? Monthly salary of delivery boys is…
-
British-made luxury cars set to get cheaper
-
BBC Breakfast viewers left concerned for star live on air 'we've lost communication'
-
Drivers over 65 urged to sit through new training to keep driving licence
-
Drivers over 65 urged to sit through new training to keep driving licence