The government has taken decisive action against Spanish and Peruvian tourists who committed indecent acts on a tuk-tuk in downtown Patong, planning to permanently blacklist them from entering Thailand.
On 6 May 2026, Ms. Ploytale Lakshamisangchan, Deputy Spokesperson of the Office of the Prime Minister, revealed updates on the scandalous video involving foreign tourists engaging in sexual acts on a tuk-tuk in Patong Subdistrict, Phuket Province, on 3 May. Police at Patong Station successfully arrested the suspects on the evening of 4 May at 8:30 p.m.
Investigations identified the suspects as Mr. Ruben, 41, Spanish nationality, and Mrs. Cynthia, 43, Peruvian nationality. Both confessed to being the individuals in the video. Authorities charged them with "public indecency in view of the public" and proceeded with fines under the law.
Ms. Ploytale stated that Phuket immigration officials reviewed the tourists' behavior and determined it severely violated Thailand's good customs. Consequently, strict measures were enforced, resulting in their immediate deportation and blacklisting to prevent future entry, aiming to uphold tourism standards and Thailand’s image.
The Deputy Spokesperson emphasized that Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul has instructed all relevant agencies to strictly enforce laws governing tourist behavior at key destinations nationwide. No exceptions will be made for tourists causing disturbances or engaging in conduct contrary to Thailand’s cultural values, especially regarding drugs and indecency, to maintain confidence among quality tourists worldwide.