Thailand Jet Ski Rider Arrested After Viral Bangkok Flood Video

A man in Thailand has been arrested after a video of him riding a jet ski through a flooded Bangkok road went viral online.

The footage, which circulated on 27 September 2026, showed the rider speeding and drifting through floodwater along New Phetchaburi Road. Instead of avoiding the flooded stretch, he appeared to use the water-covered road as a makeshift track, making sharp turns and creating large waves as he rode between flooded lanes.

The incident happened near the Ekkamai Nuea intersection while parts of Bangkok were experiencing flooding following heavy rain. Earlier that day, authorities reported that some parts of Phetchaburi Road were covered by around 40 to 50 centimetres of water, with more than 100 vehicles reportedly stalled along the affected stretch.

The video quickly attracted attention online, with the rider posting footage with the caption “B K K D R I F T”. It showed water being sprayed towards pavements, pedestrian bridge steps and roadside areas as he continued riding.

Why Was The Bangkok Jet Ski Rider Arrested?

Makkasan police later tracked down the rider and the person who filmed the incident.

The rider was identified in Thai media as 28-year-old Sorn Keadsiri. He was charged with causing a public nuisance and obstructing traffic, while the person who filmed the stunt, identified as “Prao”, was also charged as an accomplice.

Police seized the jet ski as evidence and planned to ask the court to order its forfeiture.

During questioning, the rider reportedly said that he wanted to make people smile and claimed that a foreign friend had encouraged the stunt. He also said that he went to the flooded road with a Thai friend who filmed the ride.

The explanation did not prevent police from proceeding with the case.

The footage also drew criticism because the stunt took place while residents, pedestrians and motorists were dealing with the flooding. Reports mentioned that the waves affected people in the area and that a resident's property may have been damaged, although details about the extent of any damage were not specified.

The case was brought before the court on 28 September. According to a Thai report, the rider admitted the offence and was sentenced to 15 days in prison, suspended for one year.

For travellers heading to Bangkok, the incident is also a reminder that heavy rain can quickly affect major roads and transport routes in the city. Visitors should check local weather, flood and transport advisories before travelling during periods of severe weather.