Japanese Tourist Attacked and Robbed in Pattaya
Japanese Tourist Attacked and Robbed in Pattaya
PATTAYA, Aug. 14, 2026 — Police are investigating an assault on a 25-year-old Japanese tourist after videos showing a group of Thai men repeatedly punching and kicking him on a busy road in Pattaya circulated widely on social media.
The incident came to light after footage of the attack was shared online. In one video, the Japanese man, wearing a white T-shirt, was seen running away as several men chased and attacked him.
Another video showed him running into the middle of the road before a motorcycle rider knocked him to the ground. He then got back up and continued running.
The assault took place in front of motorists and pedestrians, including Thai and foreign nationals. Witnesses subsequently contacted rescue workers, who found the injured man and identified him as Kosei Kanasashi.
Rescuers said Kanasashi suffered serious bruising and injuries to his head, face and body. He was also reportedly vomiting blood and was taken to hospital for treatment.
According to information provided to rescuers, Kanasashi attempted to explain that the incident may have stemmed from his friend’s missing mobile phone.
He reportedly said his friend had dropped the phone on the road and that a motorcycle taxi rider had picked it up. The Japanese tourist was unable to provide a full account because of his injuries.
Initial information suggested that an argument may have erupted after the rider allegedly refused to return the phone, leading to the subsequent assault.
Police later established that Kanasashi had walked out of Pattaya Walking Street and was standing near the entrance while using his mobile phone.
A group of men then reportedly approached him and accompanied him toward a motorcycle taxi shelter, where the physical confrontation broke out.
Police said Kanasashi initially went to hospital but later refused treatment and left.
Investigators have reviewed the footage and are gathering information about those involved. However, officers said they have so far been unable to take legal action because the Japanese tourist has not filed a formal complaint or provided investigators with a clear account of the incident.
Police said they can continue collecting evidence while waiting for Kanasashi to lodge a complaint, which would allow the investigation to proceed under the relevant legal procedures.
