Thai Woman Accuses Security Guard of Assault at Udon Thani Railway Station

Photo via One 31

An 18-year-old Thai woman has accused a security guard at Udon Thani Railway Station of sexual assault. The incident allegedly took place in the early hours of April 19, and the guard, 53-year-old Monthian, has denied the allegation, leading to an ongoing investigation.

The woman, who had travelled from Ang Thong to Sakon Nakhon to visit her ill boyfriend, was on her way home when she missed her train at Udon Thani and had to wait until the next scheduled train at 8am. According to her account, Monthian offered her a place to rest in his booth to avoid mosquitoes, and she fell asleep there.

She reported that at around 3am, Monthian woke her by slapping her bottom and suggested she use the bathroom. Initially declining, she later agreed, escorted by Monthian to the facilities where the assault allegedly took place. She recounted that he attempted unwanted physical contact but managed to escape, subsequently contacting her boyfriend, family, and the police.

Monthian has provided a different version of events, admitting he invited her into his booth for safety reasons. He claims he took her to the guard’s bathroom after she expressed a desire to use it, as public facilities were closed. He insists he followed her only to turn on the light, but she exited abruptly.

The case is complicated by conflicting reports. One news outlet, One 31, indicated CCTV footage showed no signs of distress from the woman as she willingly accompanied the guard. Additionally, Channel 7 noted discrepancies in her train booking claims, unable to find a reservation under her name.

Following his arrest, Monthian was temporarily released on 140,000 baht bail. In response to the serious nature of the accusation, the State Railway of Thailand has suspended him pending the investigation's outcome.

The incident raises important questions about safety and conduct at public facilities, with both sides presenting different narratives that authorities must carefully scrutinize to ascertain the truth. The investigation continues, with both parties awaiting a resolution to this disturbing allegation.

Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger

-- 2025-04-21