Thailand: a jealous British man assaults a French tourist in Koh Samui

A British man was arrested after assaulting a French tourist at a hotel in Koh Samui in southern Thailand on November 19.

The Bo Phut police station responded to a call reporting an assault around noon at a hotel in Bo Phut, on the island of Koh Samui, in Surat Thani province.

The officers found two injured victims: Mr. Mathis, a 23-year-old French national, and Mrs. Kanokwan, a 21-year-old Thai woman from Nakhon Ratchasima province.

Both were injured and taken to the hospital, with Mrs. Kanokwan apparently suffering serious injuries.

The authorities apprehended the alleged perpetrator on the scene, identified as Mr. Richard, a 44-year-old British national.

He finds his girlfriend with another man

A Thai woman receives first aid and her injuries are examined to be used as evidence in the investigation into the assault on November 19, 2025.

During his interrogation, Richard told police that he had discovered Kanokwan, his girlfriend, in the hotel room with Mathis.

According to police, he admitted to having immediately assaulted the Frenchman out of jealousy.

However, Richard denied any responsibility for the woman's injuries, claiming that Kanokwan had hurt herself and alleging that she had a history of self-mutilation.

Investigators recorded the suspect's statements and are awaiting medical reports from doctors.

The police are also waiting for Kanokwan's health to improve before taking her statement.

The investigation continues, with authorities working to establish all the circumstances surrounding the incident before proceeding with official proceedings.

Penalties incurred in Thailand for assault under the Penal Code

Prisoners in a Thai prison. Photo: Thomson Reuters Foundation

Under the Thai Penal Code, the sentence imposed for assault depends on the degree of harm caused.

A minor assault is punishable by a maximum sentence of one month's imprisonment or a fine of up to 10,000 baht (approximately 267 euros).

However, if serious bodily harm is confirmed, the sentence is significantly increased, ranging from six months to ten years' imprisonment and a fine of between 10,000 and 200,000 baht (267 to 5,344 euros).

The police reminded the public that violent behavior, whatever the emotional motives, will be dealt with seriously under Thai law.

See also:

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Belgian tourist dies in Thailand after violent attack

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Source: Khaosod English