Thailand is not a signatory of the UN convention on refugees. Most unfortunate as many Burmese are fleeing persecution for reasons outlined in the UN definition.
Hope he has usufruct title on the deeds. That way he can use the house for the rest of his life. That way if his wife predeceases him he has right of use. He will likely leave the island after this theft and damage. Hope the cops can do a thorough job.
In the uk, and perhaps other countries, the pedestrian has the right of way at ALL times. Maybe Thailand could consider adding this rule in their Highway Code and test.