Fed up! Phuket residents have formed the "Protect Phuket Land" group and scheduled a rally on 28 August, urging tourists to respect the law and the local way of life. Over 500 people are expected to participate.
At 09:00 on 24 August 2026 at Patong Police Station, Phuket, the "Protect Phuket Land" group, led by Mr. Saichon Nuchet with members, submitted a letter requesting permission to hold a symbolic rally. The aim is to call on tourists visiting Phuket to abide by Thai laws and respect the local people's way of life. Police Lieutenant Colonel Somporn Surin, Deputy Superintendent of Patong Police, received the letter.
Mr. Saichon said the letter requests permission to hold the rally on 28 August at Dolphin Park in front of Patong Beach. They expect at least 500 residents, shopkeepers, and local business operators to join. He confirmed the rally will be peaceful and conducted within legal boundaries.
The rally will have two parts: the first allows residents and those affected by tourists' behavior to voice their concerns to relevant agencies. The second will be a forum inviting government officials to answer questions and listen to proposals from the public to find solutions together.
Mr. Saichon explained that the group was formed out of concern about certain tourists' behavior impacting residents and businesses. He noted the problem is not unique to Phuket but also found in other tourist areas like Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. He said it is time for locals to express their rights, freedom, and safety and act as a bridge to convey issues to the government for resolution.
He further mentioned complaints about some tourists, especially Israelis, including cases of dining without paying, disputes over tuk-tuk fares, fights, and disruptive behavior affecting businesses and residents. He emphasized that they do not intend to generalize entire nationalities but want authorities to seriously address individuals violating laws.
He also spoke about tourists from certain countries whose behavior should be monitored for causing nuisance, such as group driving tours around various sites. He stressed the key point is for tourists of all nationalities to comply with Thai laws and equally respect locals.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Somporn Surin, Deputy Superintendent of Patong Police, said the rally is allowed as long as it remains peaceful and lawful, without causing conflicts. He instructed that no items or symbols that might provoke disputes, such as the Palestinian flag, should be brought to the site. He also urged the rally not to be prolonged or involve any illegal actions.
The rally's main goal is to highlight problems and urge all parties to cooperate in creating safety, order, and mutual respect between locals and tourists in observing laws and ways of life.