Conflict Resurfaces Between Swiss Dog Owner and Locals in Prachuap Khiri Khan
Prachuap Khiri Khan, Thailand – A long-running dispute between a Swiss dog owner and local residents in Suan Luang Beach, Prachuap Khiri Khan, has flared up again after a foreign tourist witnessed the owner walking his aggressive dogs on the beach despite previous orders to remove them. The incident reignites concerns over public safety and the enforcement of local regulations.
On January 23, 2025, a group of Thai and foreign tourists, alongside local residents, gathered to file a formal complaint with the Pong Prasad Subdistrict Administrative Organization (SAO) in Bang Saphan district. They reported that Mathias, a Swiss national residing in Thailand, had returned to Suan Luang Beach with his dogs, despite being previously ordered to remove the animals while legal proceedings were ongoing.
Local residents provided video evidence showing Mathias walking four dogs—two large and two small—along the beach without leashes or collars. The footage also captured the fear of tourists and locals, including children, who stood still to avoid possible attacks. When Mathias noticed people recording the incident, he appeared indifferent to their concerns.
Mr. Thip Ruenkasem, 56, who recorded the video, said the dog attacks had seriously impacted tourism in the area. “Since the initial attacks, visitors have been reluctant to come to Suan Luang Beach because they fear for their safety,” he explained. “This complaint aims to understand why Mathias continues to violate the orders and return with his dogs.”
He added that the SAO had already instructed Mathias to remove his dogs to prevent further incidents, yet he persistently returns, openly defying the authorities. “This behavior seems like a blatant disregard for Thai law,” said Ruenkasem.
One of the victims, Mr. Rolf, a 76-year-old Swiss tourist, shared his own experience of being bitten by one of Mathias’ dogs in 2024. He expressed relief upon hearing that the authorities had banned Mathias from keeping his dogs but was shocked to see him walking the same animals on the beach during his return visit. “What legal action can be taken to protect locals and tourists?” Rolf asked. “If this continues, we could face the same problems again.”
In response, Mr. Thanachai Buachuang, president of the Pong Prasad SAO, acknowledged the ongoing issue. He explained that while the SAO had attempted to mediate and take action in accordance with the law, Mathias’ lawyer had filed an appeal. An investigation by the Department of Health, Zone 5, found no evidence of aggressive dogs at Mathias’ home, leading to the case being dropped. However, the SAO continues to receive complaints about Mathias’ persistent violations.
Despite regular inspections, Mathias has allegedly hidden his dogs during visits from health officials. When the aggressive dogs are found, the SAO aims to enforce the original order to remove them, but Mathias has consistently evaded such measures, resulting in the ongoing complaints.
Local residents and tourists are calling for more stringent enforcement of the law to prevent further incidents and restore confidence in the safety of the area.