Malaysian Tourists Critically Injured in Bangkok Arson Attack
BANGKOK, Thailand – Two Malaysian tourists are in critical but stable condition after being deliberately set on fire by an unemployed man in Bangkok on August 7th. The attack occured on Ratchadamri Road near a shopping center, leaving the victims with meaningful burns.
The victims, identified as 26-year-old Mr. Ong and 27-year-old Ms. gan, were seated on steps near a shopping centre when the suspect approached them from behind and doused them with thinner before igniting them. Despite attempting to flee, they were pursued and set alight.
According to Mr. Bong Yik Jui, the Malaysian Embassy’s charge d’affaires ad interim to thailand, both victims are receiving medical care at separate hospitals.Mr. Ong is currently in the intensive care unit at Police General Hospital, suffering from second-degree burns across his upper body, both front and back. Ms. Gan is being treated at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital with second-degree burns covering 36% of her body.Mr. Bong confirmed both are conscious and their conditions are considered serious but not life-threatening. The embassy has notified the families of both individuals.
Police have apprehended the suspect, a 30-year-old man from Sa Kaeo province, who was reportedly frustrated by unemployment. He was detained by members of the public attempting to flee the scene and is currently in custody at Lumpini Police Station.
Superintendent of Lumpini police Station,Police Colonel Yingyos Suwanno,stated that the investigation into the motive behind the attack is ongoing. Police intend to gather statements from the victims once their conditions stabilize.
Context: Safety for Tourists in Thailand
Thailand remains a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors annually. while generally considered a safe country, incidents of violent crime, including attacks on tourists, do occur. The Ratchadamri Road area, where the attack took place, is a central and generally well-patrolled district of Bangkok, known for its upscale shopping and hotels.
This incident highlights the importance of situational awareness for travelers,even in typically safe areas. The Malaysian Embassy in Thailand provides consular assistance to its citizens traveling or residing in the country. Travelers are encouraged to register their trip with their embassy and be aware of local emergency contact numbers.
Crucial Details:
Date of Incident: August 7th
Location: Ratchadamri Road, Bangkok, Thailand
Victims: Mr. Ong (26), Ms. Gan (27) – Malaysian tourists
Injuries: Mr.Ong – Second-degree burns to upper body; Ms. Gan – 36% second-degree burns. Both in critical but stable condition.
Suspect: 30-year-old man from Sa Kaeo province, unemployed.
Motive (Preliminary): Frustration over unemployment. Status of Suspect: In custody at Lumpini Police Station.
Embassy Involvement: Malaysian Embassy providing consular assistance.
