Police and a multidisciplinary team are expediting the investigation of a 15-year-old girl who was allegedly sexually assaulted by a private during the Songkran event on Khao San Road. Authorities noted that if the suspect acted alone, he may be tried in a military court instead of a civilian one.
The victim, a 15-year-old girl, reported through the “Sai Mai Must Survive” page that she was physically assaulted and sexually abused by a group claiming to be soldiers near a public restroom on Tani Road close to Khao San Road, Phra Nakhon district, Bangkok. The incident occurred on the night of 15 April 2026 during the Songkran festival. A complaint was filed at Chana Songkhram Police Station.
At 10:30 a.m. on 17 April 2026, Pol. Maj. Gen. Worasak Phisitbanakorn, Commissioner of Metropolitan Police Division 1, stated that since the victim is a 15-year-old minor, questioning will be conducted by a multidisciplinary team following legal procedures due to the sensitive nature of the case. The victim was scheduled for questioning at 12:00 p.m. Police are currently gathering evidence and thoroughly verifying facts, especially whether more than one person was involved. Review of CCTV footage so far has not identified any additional accomplices. Preliminary charges may include rape and offenses related to minors, pending further investigation.
When asked whether the army intends to hand over Private Pasit Komahi, assigned to the 1st Army Area Command Company, to the police, Pol. Maj. Gen. Worasak said that if the suspect is confirmed to be a soldier, jurisdiction issues must be considered. If he acted alone, the case may be tried in a military court. However, if civilians were involved, the case would proceed through the regular criminal court system. After questioning the victim, police will coordinate with the suspect’s military unit to formally charge and detain him within the 48-hour legal timeframe before further legal procedures.
Mr. Aekaphop Luangprasert said by phone that today, investigators from Chana Songkhram Police Station, together with the multidisciplinary team, will conduct further questioning of the victim. Furthermore, on Monday, 20 April, they plan to take the victim to the Ministry of Justice to request witness protection and receive compensation as a victim in the criminal case.
Reporters noted that the investigative team questioned the suspect group at the military camp. The suspect admitted to committing the offense, but denied that any friends who joined in the Songkran water festivities were involved. Police remain unconvinced and will continue to investigate both sides and gather additional evidence before drawing conclusions.