Bangkok: The Italian Embassy has issued a statement expressing regret and offering an apology for a video clip that has gone viral showing a group of Italian tourists behaving inappropriately on the BTS Skytrain. The video, which sparked widespread criticism online, depicts the tourists making noise and displaying middle fingers towards Thai people.

According to Thai News Agency, the Italian Embassy in Thailand condemned the behavior, labeling it as inappropriate and unrepresentative of Italian citizens' values. The embassy emphasized that the actions of these young tourists, who were on a school field trip, do not reflect the mutual respect, friendship, and courtesy that underpin the long-standing relationship between Thailand and Italy.

In response to the incident, a video was published showing four Italian representatives apologizing for their behavior on the BTS Skytrain. The apology video features a man in a white shirt explaining their initial intention to apologize, which was delayed by anxiety and fear. A woman in a red shirt expressed regret, acknowledging that respect cannot be bought with money. Meanwhile, the teenage boy in a black shirt, who was seen making the offensive gesture, admitted his wrongdoing and apologized to the Thai people. Another woman in a white shirt stated her lack of support for such behavior and announced that the students involved would return to Italy promptly, with a firm instruction to respect cultural norms.

Pol. Lt. Gen. Trairong Phiwphan, Deputy Inspector General of the National Police and spokesperson for the National Police Office, indicated that the victim of the incident has the right to file a complaint against the Italian tourist. He clarified that if the actions are perceived as defamation or an infringement on human dignity, legal action can be pursued under Thai law.

The public has been advised to remain calm and avoid confrontation if they encounter similar incidents. They are encouraged to prioritize their safety, collect evidence, and report any such occurrences to the relevant authorities.