A Karen man provided additional testimony to Pattaya City Police, affirming he will pursue the matter fully. Meanwhile, the legal team intends to file charges against “Hia Tee” for defamation by advertising, introducing false information into the computer system, assaulting others, and unlawful confinement.
The case arose after a video clip showing a group assaulting a man circulated on social media. The clip identified the assailant as “Hia Tee Krata Ron” or “Hia Tee Thai Not Tolerant,” also known as Mr. Aiyawat Thitiwatkanok, 43, who allegedly attacked a foreign laborer, causing a split lip. However, the situation reversed when it was later revealed the victim was not a foreign worker but an indigenous Karen ethnic from Kanchanaburi province. This caused significant displeasure among Kanchanaburi residents, prompting calls for “Hia Tee” to take responsibility and condemning vigilante justice. Recently, “Hia Tee” posted on his personal Facebook denying a group assault, stating he only slapped the Karen man twice to discipline him and asserting he was "just restoring Thai dignity," denying any intent to harm, as previously reported.
At 11:30 a.m. on 10 March 2026, Mr. Suksawat Thabmanoch, also known as “Moddam,” 43, along with his legal team, accompanied Mr. Det, 27, a Karen ethnic man injured in an attack by “Hia Tee Krata Ron” or Mr. Aiyawat Thitiwatkanok, 43, to provide additional testimony to Sub-Lieutenant Supakit Khontee, Deputy Investigation Officer at Pattaya City Police Station.
Initially, Mr. Det underwent a medical examination at a hospital and is awaiting the medical certificate. The victim confirmed he intends to pursue full legal action against the perpetrator. Meanwhile, the legal team plans to file charges against “Hia Tee” for defamation by advertising, introducing false information into the computer system, assault, and unlawful confinement.
Mr. Det, the injured party, recounted that on 1 March, he was working part-time as an entertainer at a nightclub in South Pattaya, Nong Prue Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province. He initially had an issue with the venue over deposit alcohol but paid as usual. When a new bottle was opened, normally free fruit is provided, but he did not receive any. He criticized the venue as a “stingy establishment,” admitting to saying this, which led to a verbal dispute with staff. However, the matter was resolved the same day.
On 2 March, “Hia Tee” reportedly stormed into the venue, grabbed him by the collar, and questioned if he was Thai, asking to see his ID. What followed was as shown in the video clips. After the clips circulated, Mr. Det felt humiliated and struggled with daily life, unsure how to continue living. His mental state deteriorated severely, and he is uncertain about finding work. He seeks justice and asks that neither his birthplace nor his ethnic group be maligned. He affirms his determination to seek full legal redress against the opposing party.
Mr. Suksawat Thabmanoch, or “Moddam,” stated that their visit aims to have the police review the facts further and determine which offenses apply, as the victim is an outsider who came to work to support his family. They do not want such incidents to happen to anyone else.
Evidence includes video clips circulated on social media alleging a group demanded 2,000 baht and claimed a certain status. They plan to submit these clips to authorities to verify facts and urge relevant agencies to take serious action.
Assault by a group against another person should not occur regardless of nationality. The justice system must handle such matters legally, and if offenses are found, authorities should prosecute accordingly. Violence should not be used.