Chonburi Police Deny Allegations of Assault and Theft by British Tourist, Clarify Arrest Details
CHONBURI – Chonburi Provincial Police have firmly refuted a Daily Mail report alleging that a British tourist was assaulted and robbed by Pattaya officers, stating that the man was arrested twice for causing public disturbances while heavily intoxicated and that all procedures were conducted lawfully.
The controversy centers around 55-year-old British tourist Andrew Hopkins, who claimed he was wrongfully detained, assaulted, and extorted by Pattaya police after allegedly bumping into a road sign. However, authorities have provided a detailed account of the incidents, countering Hopkins’ version of events.
On February 4, a press conference was held at Pattaya Police Station, attended by Pol. Maj. Gen. Thawatchakiet Jindakornsanoong, Chief of Chonburi Provincial Police, Pattaya Police Chief Pol. Col. Navin Theerawit, and Ms. Apinya Wittayanikorn, manager of Hyde Park Residence, where the disturbances occurred.
According to Ms. Apinya, the incident began when Hopkins, heavily intoxicated, caused a public disturbance and damaged property by breaking a security barrier at Hyde Park Residence. Contrary to his claim of accidentally bumping into a sign, Hopkins allegedly snapped the barrier nearly in half. Police were called to de-escalate the situation and detained Hopkins until he calmed down, issuing him a 100-baht fine before releasing him.
However, Hopkins reportedly returned to the residence shortly after, resuming disruptive behavior and frightening tenants with inappropriate actions. When he allegedly refused to leave and threatened staff, police were called again, leading to his second arrest.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Thawatchakiet emphasized that the arrests were lawful and not based on Hopkins’ claim of accidentally bumping into a sign. He also denied allegations that police stole from Hopkins, stating that all his valuables were properly recorded and returned upon release.
Addressing claims of poor detention conditions, Pol. Maj. Gen. Thawatchakiet clarified that the images circulated online did not depict an official police facility. He added that the holding cells are maintained to standard and monitored by CCTV cameras.
The police chief revealed plans to formally request the British Embassy to address what he called misleading coverage, which he believes harms Pattaya’s reputation as a world-class tourist destination. He reiterated that Thai police follow strict legal procedures to ensure the safety of all citizens and visitors, regardless of nationality.
As of now, Hopkins, who has returned to the UK, has not formally responded to the police’s statements. The case highlights the challenges of balancing law enforcement with maintaining a positive image for Thailand’s tourism industry.