A Russian tourist was arrested by police for wandering the streets while wielding a huge knife in Thailand.

Godzhimurad Mutalimov, 23, sparked alarm as he staggered along the road waving the long blade around on the island Phuket on December 18 afternoon.

Footage shows Godzhmiurad listening to music on his earphones as he brandished with the weapon in his left hand.

Police Lieutenant Colonel Panthasak Chaithong, Deputy Superintendent of the Chalong Police Station, said officers received a report about the 'dangerous foreigner' at 4:30 pm local time.

They detained Godzhimurad and took him to the police station to calm down. There were no reports of injuries or property damage.

Police Lieutenant Colonel Panthasak Chaithong said: 'The tourist was sent to a hospital for a mental assessment before there is a prosecution.'

Thailand has become a popular destination for Russian tourists escaping military conscription in the war with Ukraine.

In November, the Thai government allowed Russian holidaymakers to stay in the country visa-free for up to 90 days.