A Chinese man has been permanently banned from entering Thailand after allegedly damaging an automated glass gate at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Samut Prakan province. The 30-year-old tourist reportedly kicked the gate twice after failing to use it correctly, forcing his way through without completing immigration procedures.
Video footage shared on social media shows him slamming his travel document before kicking the barriers. Authorities intervened and charged him with property damage, which carries a fine of up to $15,000, imprisonment for up to three years, or both. He also faces charges for verbally abusing officers, punishable by up to a year in prison or a fine of up to $600.
Officials have revoked his visa and placed him on a permanent blacklist. He will be deported once legal proceedings are completed. The incident follows a directive from Thailand's interior ministry to crack down on law-breaking foreigners, particularly those causing disturbances in tourist areas like Phuket and Surat Thani.
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated that tourists exhibiting inappropriate behaviour must be prosecuted strictly. Police Lieutenant General Panumas Bunyalak emphasised that Thailand welcomes respectful tourists, but any conduct violating basic morals will result in visa revocation and deportation.
