PHUKET — A group of foreign tourists was arrested in Patong after videos emerged showing them using high-pressure water guns to repeatedly spray police officers on duty during Songkran celebrations, an act authorities have condemned as a deliberate breach of festive conduct that endangered those tasked with keeping the peace.
The incident surfaced on April 14, 2026, when footage began circulating widely across social media, triggering sharp public outrage. The videos showed officers from Patong Police Station stationed at a coordination tent in Patong municipality being targeted by dozens of tourists on April 13. Witnesses described the suspects as having Arab-European backgrounds.
In the first clips, a large group of foreign tourists is seen firing high-pressure water guns directly at police officers. The force of the jets forced officers to flee for cover, shielding their faces as they retreated to avoid potential injury to their eyes and bodies. A second clip, filmed from inside a nearby vehicle, captured another angle of the same group surrounding the officers and continuing to spray them. The intensity and coordination of the attack suggested deliberate targeting rather than the spontaneous, good-natured water play that typically defines Songkran.
A third clip showed police officers pursuing and arresting those involved. The suspects were taken into custody at Patong Police Station, where they now face legal proceedings. Authorities have stated that the actions exceeded acceptable Songkran behaviour and could have caused injury to officers performing their official duties. The act was described as intentional and disruptive, particularly given the number of individuals involved and the coordinated manner in which they singled out law enforcement personnel.
The incident has raised broader concerns about maintaining safety and order during large-scale festival events, especially in major tourist destinations like Patong, which draws thousands of international visitors each year for the traditional New Year water festival. Police have confirmed that legal action will proceed against those detained, while authorities continue to monitor festival activities to ensure public safety. Officials have also reminded visitors that while Songkran is a time of celebration, respect for law enforcement and local customs remains expected at all times.