A lively evening at Chiang Mai’s famous street food stalls took a chaotic turn when a British tourist decided to defy safety rules.

While enjoying the vibrant atmosphere with his friends at the Chang Phuak market, the man lit up a cigarette near a gas tank used for cooking.

Despite clear warnings against smoking in the area, he insisted it was his right to do so, dismissing concerns about the potential hazard.

Ignoring Safety for ‘Personal Freedom’

The cook, concerned about the safety of the customers and staff, politely asked the tourist to put out his cigarette.

Instead of complying, the man became defensive, claiming it was his “personal freedom” to smoke in public spaces.

Tensions escalated as he refused to consider the danger posed by the nearby gas tanks, leading to a confrontation with the food stall staff.

Chaos Unfolds as Tempers Flare

As the situation spiraled, the man’s aggression took over.

He allegedly pushed over a tray and tossed his lit cigarette toward the stall, which prompted an immediate reaction from the staff.

They doused him with bowls of cold water, determined to protect the area from the fire risk.

Bystanders, shocked by the sudden outburst, captured the intense moment on camera, with the tourist shouting insults at the staff.

Fortunately, the altercation was de-escalated when the stall owner’s sister arrived and managed to calm the situation.

The tourist eventually apologized, and his friends helped to diffuse the tension before leaving.

Despite the dramatic encounter, the local police, led by Lieutenant Colonel Awirut Sukyaem, reported that no formal complaints had been filed.

However, authorities stated that they would investigate further if any reports were made.

Incidents like these serve as a reminder of the importance of respecting local customs and safety rules, especially when visiting foreign countries.

What started as a small dispute over a cigarette could have escalated into something far more dangerous.

Ultimately, the swift actions of the market staff helped prevent a potential disaster, ensuring that safety remained the top priority.