Phuket fines vexatious French wannabe ‘dek waen’ moto punks | Coconuts

*Phuketers did a double take last night when it turned out an annoying scooter gang juicing their engines and making noise at about 11pm was not comprised of Thai teens but rather fully grown Frenchmen joyriding along Patong Beach.*

Published: 2026-03-14 17:55 UTC Event date: developing

Seven French tourists were detained and fined by Patong police late last night after causing a public disturbance with loud scooter rides along Patong Beach, a popular nightlife and tourism hub in Phuket. The incident occurred around 11pm, when residents and motorists reported a group of foreign men revving engines, honking horns, and creating excessive noise and exhaust fumes in the area.

According to police, the group of French nationals gathered en masse on rented scooters, drawing attention for their disruptive behavior typically associated with local youth motorcycle gangs, known as “dek waen.” However, surprised onlookers soon realized the culprits were not local teenagers, but adult foreign visitors engaging in a late-night joyride.

Authorities responded quickly to complaints from both residents and tourists, who reported significant disturbance and traffic congestion caused by the group’s activities. Officers detained seven individuals from the group and issued fines for public nuisance offenses, citing their responsibility to maintain order and protect Phuket’s reputation as a welcoming destination.

The noisy episode disrupted the usual nighttime atmosphere along Patong Beach Road, an area frequented by both locals and international visitors. Residents expressed frustration at the unexpected disturbance, while some tourists reported being startled by the sudden commotion and traffic snarls. Local businesses along the beachfront, which rely on a safe and pleasant environment for customers, also noted the negative impact such incidents can have on visitor experience.

Patong police emphasized the importance of enforcing local laws equally for both Thais and foreigners, particularly in high-profile tourist zones. Officers stated that swift action was taken to address the nuisance and prevent further escalation, reinforcing their commitment to upholding public safety and community standards.

As Phuket continues to welcome large numbers of international tourists, authorities have urged all visitors to respect local laws and customs. Police have indicated that increased patrols and monitoring will be maintained in nightlife districts to deter similar incidents, especially as the island enters its busy travel season.

Officials reminded the public to promptly report any disturbances to ensure swift intervention. The seven French nationals were released after paying fines, and police have not disclosed their identities. No injuries or property damage were reported.

Authorities are expected to review enforcement strategies in tourist areas to safeguard both residents’ quality of life and Phuket’s image as a leading travel destination.

Source: https://coconuts.co/bangkok/news/phuket-fines-vexatious-french-wannabe-dek-waen-moto-punks/