Tourists Deported After Public Indecency Incident in Phuket

Melbourne, 18 April: Two young foreign tourists have been deported from Thailand following an incident of public indecency on the popular tourist island of Phuket. The French nationals, Halan and Nadia, both aged 24, were arrested on April 12 after a video of their inappropriate behaviour at Rayee Beach went viral on social media.

The footage shows the pair engaging in intimate acts while naked on the sand in broad daylight, causing shock and discomfort among nearby beachgoers. Witnesses said the couple made no attempt to conceal their actions, with audible noises reportedly heard across the beach.

The incident sparked strong backlash from locals, many of whom criticised the lack of proper monitoring in tourist areas. One local said, “Many foreigners come here and behave like animals. I would rather have no tourists than live in such an environment.” Another added, “It’s shameful. Because laws are not strict enough, people think they can do anything.”

Police later tracked the couple to a hotel in Phuket’s Kathu district, where they were taken into custody. Authorities confirmed that both admitted to their actions and were fined 5,000 baht (approximately $220) each for public indecency.

Local police officer Colonel Anurak Parinyasthirakul said the pair claimed they were relaxed while on holiday and got carried away in the moment. Following the incident, immigration authorities cancelled their visas and deported them from the country.

The video, widely shared online, has divided public opinion. While some described the act as “romantic,” many others condemned it as “disgusting” and “unacceptable.” One commenter noted, “Wherever you go, you should respect the rules and culture of that country.”

The incident is part of a growing number of cases involving inappropriate behaviour by tourists in Phuket. In February 2024, another French couple was deported and blacklisted after engaging in sexual activity on the back of a tuk-tuk in the Karon area. Similar incidents have also occurred in hotels, vehicles, and beachside locations in recent months.

In response, Thai authorities have begun tightening enforcement against public indecency and sexually inappropriate behaviour in tourist zones.

The controversy comes at a time when Thailand’s tourism sector is recovering strongly. According to official data, around 14 million tourists visited Phuket in 2025, with significant numbers arriving from Russia, China, India, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

— news.com.au