Austrian man’s visa revoked after repeated public disturbances in Phuket

Phuket immigration officers have revoked the visa of a 39-year-old Austrian man and ordered his deportation after repeated public disturbances in Rawai, authorities said.

Phuket Immigration told the Phuket Express that the man, identified only as Mr. Raphael, was reported by local residents for disruptive behavior that included blocking traffic lanes, harassing passersby for money and appearing intoxicated in public.

Authorities said images of his actions circulated widely on social media, prompting a swift investigation by immigration officers.

Officials confirmed that Raphael had entered Thailand on a temporary tourist visa and later applied for a student visa to study Thai language and culture.

According to immigration authorities, his repeated misconduct, often linked to alcohol consumption, was considered a serious violation of public order. Officials said he had previously received warnings and minor penalties but continued to cause disturbances.

Authorities concluded that his behavior posed a threat to community safety and harmed the country’s tourism image. Under Section 54 of the Immigration Act of 1979, his permission to remain in Thailand was revoked and deportation proceedings were initiated.