This is the moment a hot-headed tourist attacked an oncoming taxi in Thailand.

The burly cap-wearing man was crossing the street with his family as Thai taxi driver Thonglak, 57, was turning a corner at the Central Samui mall on Koh Samui island on April 8.

Despite being given a wide berth, the tourist marched over and struck Thonglak's car several times.

A traffic officer was seen running to apprehend him, and both parties were taken to the Bo Phut Police Station.

Police Colonel Denduang Thongsrisook, superintendent of the Bo Phut Police Station, said: 'The incident took place at the entrance of Central Samui mall. 

'The foreigner said that he felt startled when crossing the road, claiming that the taxi did not slow down and continued to drive towards him. 

'He said he confronted the taxi driver because he was worried his family would be hurt.'

Meanwhile, Thonglak said he was shocked by the man's outburst as he had already given way and gestured for them to pass.

He said: 'The tourist was possibly drunk. He charged at my taxi and struck the window, startling my daughter and two foreign passengers. 

'I was prepared to exit the car, but my daughter stopped me because she was afraid the man would hurt me. Luckily, a nearby police officer intervened. He advised me not to pursue a case because there was no damage to the car window, but I would have filed a report otherwise. 

'I did not know what his nationality was. I want to warn other people that these kinds of tourists are dangerous. I urge the Immigration Bureau to investigate as well.'

The tourist was released without any action being taken after apologies were exchanged.