A Belgian tourist has died while reportedly trying to defuse an argument between his friend and a tuk-tuk driver in Thailand.

Michele Filippo Taormina, 32, allegedly fell and hit his head on the pavement outside the Thammarat Apartment in the vibrant Patong red-light district area of Phuket early morning on March 8.

Police said they received an emergency call and arrived at the scene at 5:13 AM.

Witnesses told the officers that Michele was attempting to intervene between his friend and a tuk-tuk driver, who were fighting about the overpriced 300-baht (8.5 USD) fare.

He was rushed to the Patong Hospital as he was bleeding from his head. However, he was later pronounced dead. His remains were taken to the Vachira Phuket Hospital for a post-mortem examination.

Deputy inspector Police Captain Nattawut Saraithong said forensic officers and tourist police will be collecting evidence from CCTV cameras for investigation.

Claims that the Belgian man was attacked by apartment tenants over the commotion will also be investigated, he said.

Police Captain Nattawut said: 'The death of tourists is very rare so I want to reassure visitors that it is not normal for this to happen. The case will be investigated in detail to ensure that the area remains safe for holidaymakers.'

Officials said the tourist from Brussels entered Thailand at the Phuket Airport on February 12. They have notified the Belgian embassy of Michele's death. They