GMMTV has terminated its contract with Akanat “Nott” Ariyaritwikul, a TV programme host on the network, after a video clip (see earlier story below) showing the driver of a Mini sedan punching a motorcyclist went viral on Sunday.
Mr Akanat, 28, became notorious on social media overnight. The video clip showed him punching a motorcyclist and forcing the man to perform a kraab to his car. He accused the motorcyclist of scratching his vehicle with his bike.
The incident occurred on Friday. The two men later went to police and both initially agreed not to file a complaint.
However, the video clip of the incident stirred public criticism. Mr Akanat’s demand that the youth “kraab rot ku” (kneel and wai before my car) became the most popular hashtag on Twitter.
GMMTV responded by issuing a statement on Monday saying the company regretted Mr Akanat's behaviour. As a TV host and actor he should behave in a way that sets an example for youth.
The company had considered the incident and decided to cancel his employment with immediate effect. It could not condone inappropriate behaviour.
In addition to his contract being cancelled, Mr Akanat will also be required to return the award for being a role model he received in September.
The motorcyclist, identified as Kittisak Singto, 25, told a police officer called to the scene on Friday that his bike was hit by a taxi. He was knocked off balance and into the Mini Countryman.
He had tried unsuccessfully to catch up to the taxi, then returned to the scene of the incident. Once there, he had been grabbed, punched several times and ordered to “kraab” the car, which he did not do.
Both men went to Yannawa police station on Friday to give their statement. Each claimed to be the damaged party, but they agreed not to take the matter any further.