Fake BTS theft clip sparks backlash, creator apologises

2026-01-26 - 10:14

BANGKOK — A viral video claiming to show a mobile phone theft on a BTS Skytrain has drawn widespread criticism on Thai social media, with viewers accusing the content creator of damaging the image of public transport and the country’s safety. The clip, which gained more than one million views, showed a man standing near a train door using his phone before another person appeared to snatch it just as the doors closed, startling nearby passengers. The video was later revealed to be staged content, inspired by similar clips circulating overseas. Online criticism followed, with many users saying the video was not amusing and could mislead foreign viewers into believing Thailand was unsafe, potentially affecting tourism and the reputation of the BTS Skytrain. On 25 January 2026, the man behind the video issued an apology on his Instagram account, admitting the clip was made as a joke with friends and that he had failed to consider the consequences. “I was wrong 100%,” he said, apologising for causing damage to Thailand’s image and to the transport operator. He added that he had no intention of harming anyone and promised that similar content would not be made again.