A foreign couple has been detained in Thailand’s Phuket province after a video showing them allegedly engaging in sexual activity inside a moving tuk tuk went viral on social media.
The incident reportedly took place in the Patong area, where footage captured by a passerby showed the couple inside the public transport vehicle while it was in motion. The clip quickly circulated online, sparking widespread criticism and debate over tourist behaviour in the popular island destination.
In the video, a man in a white shirt is seen seated inside the tuk tuk while a woman is positioned on the floor of the vehicle. The recording, taken by a motorcyclist following behind, also captured commentary expressing shock at the act and questioning the timing of the behaviour in a public setting.
The video, which was first shared on a local Facebook page, also triggered backlash towards the tuk tuk driver, with some social media users questioning why the situation was allowed to continue inside the vehicle.
Following public outrage, Patong police launched an investigation and later detained the couple on May 4. Authorities confirmed that both individuals are foreign nationals, though their identities have not been disclosed.
Police said legal action will be taken against the pair, although the exact charges and penalties have yet to be announced. Officials are also reviewing whether additional offences may be involved.
The incident adds to a series of similar cases involving inappropriate behaviour by tourists in Phuket, including previous reports of indecent acts in tuk tuks, which have prompted local authorities to tighten monitoring of visitor conduct.
