Khaizuran RashidWhen we travel abroad, we’re not just representing ourselves – we’re ambassadors of our home countries. This responsibility includes respecting local customs, people and most importantly, laws. However, some travellers forget this. A recent incident in Thailand serves as a stark reminder of why respectful behaviour is non-negotiable.
Also read: Exploring Bangkok: Expectations vs Reality
Tourist Caught Slapping Woman’s Buttocks on CCTV
Imagine you’re in a convenience store, minding your own business, when a complete stranger invades your personal space. That’s exactly what happened to a Thai woman on 21 Dec 2024, when a 31-year-old Polish tourist named Piotr was caught on CCTV slapping her buttocks as she shopped.
The footage, shared by the Metropolitan Police Bureau on Facebook, quickly went viral, showing Piotr walking up to the woman, committing the act, and strolling away as if nothing had happened.
Understandably, the incident left the woman embarrassed and shaken. Onlookers, including store staff, were visibly stunned. Later, the victim filed a police report at the Thung Maha Mek police station, seeking justice and a public apology from Piotr.
Tourist Refuses to Apologise – “I Don’t Believe I Had Broken any Thai Laws”
Instead of showing remorse, Piotr doubled down. Through a rental agent, he reportedly said: “I did not hit the woman very hard and I had made similar gestures at entertainment venues without receiving complaints. I don’t believe I had broken any Thai laws and I’ll be returning to my home country soon.”
This dismissive response infuriated the public and amplified calls for action.
Tourist Arrested at His Airbnb
Refusing to let Piotr’s behaviour slide, the victim pressed charges. This prompted Thai authorities to issue an arrest warrant on 14 Jan 2025, under Article 278 of the Criminal Code. This law covers acts of obscenity against individuals over the age of 15, and the penalties are steep – Up to 10 years in prison or a fine of ฿200,000 (approximately S$8,000).
Police officers arrested Piotr at his rented Airbnb, with the entire process documented on video. While Piotr acknowledged being the person in the CCTV footage, he refused to comment further on the charges.
Why This Incident Matters
This case is about more than one individual’s disrespectful actions. It highlights a broader issue: The responsibility of travellers to respect personal boundaries and local laws.
Thailand, like many other popular tourist destinations, has seen its fair share of incidents involving disrespectful behaviour by foreigners. This has led to growing frustration among locals and authorities, who are working to balance welcoming tourism with enforcing standards of respect and accountability.
Lessons for Responsible Travel
Travelling comes with a privilege and responsibility. Here are some key takeaways for ensuring your actions are respectful and lawful:
- Understand Local Laws: Research the cultural and legal norms of your destination. Ignorance is not an excuse.
- Respect Personal Space: Boundaries vary across cultures, but common courtesy is universal.
- Be Accountable: If you make a mistake, own up to it. Apologies can go a long way in resolving conflicts.
- Be a Good Ambassador: Your behaviour reflects on your home country and can shape how locals perceive other travellers.
Final Thoughts
Piotr’s actions and subsequent refusal to apologise were not only disrespectful but also illegal. Additionally, his case underscores the critical importance of respecting personal boundaries and adhering to local laws while travelling.
Finally, as travellers, we must remember that our actions carry weight, not just for ourselves but for the image of visitors everywhere. Let’s strive to be mindful, respectful, and responsible ambassadors wherever we go.
Also read: A Guide to the Best Areas to Stay in Bangkok, Thailand
All images are credited to Metropolitan Police Bureau IDMB
