A 52-year-old Indian tourist was reportedly attacked by a group of transgender women in Thailand's famous beach resort city of Pattaya. The violent incident, stemming from a disagreement over payment, occurred in the early hours of 27 December and was captured on video, which later spread across social media platforms.
How the Pattaya Dispute Escalated
According to reports from local Thai media, including The Thaiger, the tourist, identified as Raj Jasuja, was confronted by three transgender women who demanded money from him. The situation intensified when Jasuja refused to pay and attempted to drive away from the scene in his car. The women allegedly accused him of reneging on a prior agreement, leading to a heated argument.
Video evidence circulating online shows the moment the altercation turned physical. With assistance from others present, Jasuja was pulled from his vehicle. The clips depict him being kicked and beaten by the group before emergency responders could arrive and intervene.
Injuries and Eyewitness Account
Rescue workers who arrived at the scene found Jasuja with visible injuries to his face and the back of his head. He received immediate first aid and was subsequently transported to Pattamakun Hospital for further medical treatment.
A teenage eyewitness provided crucial details to rescue personnel, stating that the argument began near the entrance to Pattaya's bustling Walking Street. The witness claimed the physical violence erupted following a dispute over the specific amount of money allegedly agreed upon for services rendered. More individuals soon joined the confrontation, resulting in a coordinated group attack on the Indian national.
Police Investigation and Past Concerns
Thai police officials have stated they intend to record a formal complaint from the injured tourist once he has recovered sufficiently. Authorities confirmed that the case will then be thoroughly investigated in accordance with Thai law.
This incident highlights ongoing safety concerns in Pattaya, one of Thailand's top tourist destinations. Local reports have previously documented similar disputes involving foreign visitors and transgender sex workers, including cases of assault and alleged theft. These recurring events underscore challenges related to law enforcement and tourist security in the area.
The assault on Raj Jasuja serves as a stark reminder for travelers to exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, even in popular holiday spots.