2 Malaysian tourists critically injured after being set on fire in Bangkok

BANGKOK – Two Malaysian tourists were critically injured after being set on fire by an unemployed man in Ratchadamri Road in Thailand’s capital.

The incident occurred at around 10pm on Aug 7 when the suspect, reportedly a former boxer, came up from behind and poured thinner onto the pair.

The two Malaysians – a man identified as Mr Ong, 26, and a woman known as Ms Gan, 27, were seated on the steps near a shopping centre at the time of the attack.

The two tourists were reported to have fled after being doused, but the suspect chased them down before setting them alight.

The Malaysian Embassy’s charge d’affaires ad interim to Thailand, Mr Bong Yik Jui, said he had visited the victims, who remain in critical but stable condition.

He said Mr Ong was admitted to the intensive care unit at Police General Hospital, while Ms Gan is receiving treatment at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hos­pital.

“Ong sustained second-degree burns across his upper body, both front and back,” Mr Bong told Bernama when contacted on Aug 8.

“The injuries are considered serious but not life-threatening.

“Gan suffered 36 per cent second-degree burns, but her condition is stable and (she is) conscious.”

Mr Bong added that the embassy has contacted the families of Mr Ong and Ms Gan to inform them about the incident.

The superintendent of Lumpini Police Station, Police Colonel Yingyos Suwanno, said the suspect is a 30-year-old man from Sa Kaeo province who allegedly attacked the victims out of frustration over being unemployed.

He attempted to flee the scene but was apprehended by members of the public nearby.

Pol Col Yingyos said the suspect is being held in custody at Lumpini Police Station.

He said the police would continue to investigate the motive behind the attack.

“We would take statements from both victims once they are in stable condition.” THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK