A 40-year-old British man has been arrested in Pattaya after allegedly throwing acid on a 43-year-old female dormitory caretaker, leaving her seriously injured. The incident took place in central Pattaya, Chon Buri province, on 24 June 2026, and police say the victim is currently receiving treatment in hospital.
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According to police reports, the suspect, identified by authorities only as Richard, was taken into custody after being found arguing with another Thai woman. The victim, identified as Ms Wirawan, 43, suffered severe burns to her face and body after a liquid believed to be a corrosive substance was thrown at her at a dormitory on Soi Arunothai 2, Pattaya.
Witnesses said the man had earlier been walking through the dormitory building knocking on multiple doors while searching for a Thai woman, Ms Suporanee Penphon, 38, and a ladyboy friend. He reportedly became aggressive after failing to locate them. During a confrontation with the caretaker, he claimed he believed he was acting in self-defence and thought the liquid was cleaning fluid.
Police said Richard told officers he was trying to retrieve his passport, which he claimed had been taken by Ms Suporanee and her associate. The situation escalated when he allegedly picked up a container and threw its contents at the caretaker during an argument. Officers later confirmed that he had overstayed his permission to stay, which had expired in February 2026.
Picture courtesy of Amarin
Ms Suporanee told police she had been in a relationship with Mr Richard for around five months. She said he had a history of violent behaviour, including property damage and repeated outbursts, and that tensions had escalated over his lost passport and disruptive conduct. The caretaker, Ms Wirawan, was reportedly not involved in the dispute.
Amarin reported that authorities are continuing to investigate the assault, passport dispute, and immigration offences.Richard is expected to face charges related to overstay and assault causing serious injury, while police are coordinating with the victim’s family to proceed with a formal complaint.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 24 June 2026