A 31-year-old construction worker has been charged after allegedly attempting to sexually assault a female tourist at a resort on Samet Island, Rayong, prompting renewed scrutiny of accommodation security on the popular tourist destination.
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The incident was reported to police in Phe, Rayong, on 3 June 2026 after a 32-year-old female tourist was allegedly targeted while staying at a resort. Officers reviewed CCTV footage and identified the suspect as Nattaphong, known as Lek, a construction worker employed at a nearby building site.
Police later arrested the suspect while he was reportedly gambling online on his mobile phone. During questioning, he allegedly confessed that he had seen the victim staying in a room near his work area and acted on impulse. He admitted entering the area behind the room during the night with the intention of sexually assaulting the woman but fled after she woke up and screamed for help.
The victim told police she was travelling with a group of 12 friends and relatives. While resting in her room, she heard unusual noises behind the property and saw a man attempting to force his way inside. Her screams alerted others and caused the suspect to run away before authorities were contacted.
Picture courtesy of Khaosod
The case follows widespread online criticism after a member of the group posted details of the incident on Facebook. The post claimed that 12 people, including children and a pregnant woman, were staying at a four star resort when an outsider allegedly entered a private room and attempted to sexually assault a female guest. The group also claimed resort staff were slow to respond after calls for assistance.
The resort later issued a statement online, which was subsequently removed, expressing regret over the incident. It stressed that the suspect was not a resort employee and was not a resident of Samet Island. According to the resort, staff helped identify the suspect, who was detained within approximately 30 minutes of the report being made and presented to guests for identification in the presence of three police officers.
The resort said it had not ignored or concealed the matter and remained in contact with those affected. Management explained that staff accommodation was located about 200 metres away, contributing to delays in reaching the room, while police reportedly arrived around 15 minutes after being contacted.
Police have charged the suspect with attempted rape, night-time trespassing and illegal online gambling. The investigation remains ongoing.
Khaosod reported that authorities are now reviewing security arrangements on the island. Rayong Provincial Police Commander is scheduled to visit Samet Island on 4 June to inspect the scene and discuss enhanced safety measures aimed at preventing similar crimes in the future
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 4 June 2026