Pattaya Baht Bus Driver Apologizes, Faces Sanctions for 300-Baht Fare

PATTAYA, Thailand – A Pattaya baht bus driver who charged two passengers 300 baht for a short journey has publicly apologized and accepted full responsibility after the incident sparked widespread criticism on social media. The driver has been suspended from operating for seven days by the Pattaya Baht Bus Cooperative and now faces further legal action by the Chonburi Provincial Land Transport Office. The controversy began after a Facebook user shared their experience of using a baht bus on the night of July 5. The passenger explained that earlier in the evening they had travelled from Walking Street towards Terminal 21, paying the standard fare of 15 baht per person before getting off near Runway Market. Later, after heavy rain began, they boarded another baht bus parked outside Runway Market. Seeing other passengers already on board, they asked the driver if he was going to Terminal 21, and he replied yes. Upon arrival, however, the driver demanded 300 baht, claiming the journey was a private charter because they had boarded at Runway Market. Believing the amount was a joke, the passengers initially offered 40 baht, but the driver insisted on receiving 300 baht. As they did not have enough cash, they transferred the amount electronically before later posting the incident online. The passenger stressed they were not upset about losing the money but wanted to know whether a 300-baht fare for such a short journey was legitimate. Following the viral post, Pattaya Baht Bus Cooperative Chairman Thongchai Sukkhojai said the cooperative immediately contacted the complainant and promised strict disciplinary action. He said the cooperative does not protect members who violate the rules and would deal with the case in accordance with cooperative regulations and the requirements of the Department of Land Transport. The driver was summoned for questioning and ordered to park his vehicle at the cooperative’s office for seven days, with a notice displayed indicating the disciplinary action. His previous record will also be reviewed, and the case has been referred to the Chonburi Provincial Land Transport Office for legal proceedings. The driver, identified only as Sompong, issued a public apology. “I am a Pattaya baht bus driver. I sincerely apologize to the public and to the two passengers. It was raining that day, but I take full responsibility for what I did. I apologize to the people of Pattaya and accept the punishment from both the cooperative and the transport authorities. I only ask for an opportunity to improve.”