BANGKOK — A late-night confrontation between rival bar workers in Bangkok’s popular Sukhumvit 23 area resulted in four people being injured in a stabbing incident early on June 20, prompting an ongoing police investigation.
The violence unfolded outside a Japanese bar in Sukhumvit Soi 23, a well-known nightlife hotspot in the Asok area of central Bangkok. According to police, the dispute involved two women who work at one bar and a group of individuals linked to a nearby competing establishment. Tensions are believed to have stemmed from ongoing personal disputes and business rivalry over clients, a common source of friction in the area’s competitive nightlife industry.
The incident occurred in a parking area behind the bar, shortly after closing time. Police from Thonglor Station responded to reports of a violent altercation and found four individuals with stab wounds. Two women were taken into custody at the scene on suspicion of carrying out the attacks. Investigators say the suspects encountered their rivals while disposing of trash after hours and allegedly armed themselves with kitchen knives when they felt threatened by the group.
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as the altercation quickly escalated. One of the victims, a young woman, reportedly became involved while attempting to calm the situation. According to her aunt, who spoke to local media, longstanding tensions had existed between the two groups, but previous disputes had never resulted in physical violence. On the night in question, the woman approached the car park after hearing raised voices and found her friends already in a heated argument. She was stabbed in the abdomen and right side while trying to intervene.
All four injured individuals were taken to Kluaynamthai Hospital. Two remain in serious condition, unconscious from their injuries. One victim suffered wounds to the stomach, and another sustained injuries to the side and arm.
The two detained suspects have been charged with causing grievous bodily harm. Although they declined to comment during police questioning, authorities confirmed they were released on bail of 150,000 baht (approximately USD 4,000) each. A follow-up police interview is scheduled for July 7, when further legal proceedings will be determined.
The incident has drawn attention to the often unseen tensions behind Bangkok’s nightlife industry, where competition for patrons can sometimes turn personal. As police continue their investigation, the local community remains concerned about the potential for further violence in the area.
