Bangkok: A soldier from the 1st Army Area has confessed to sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl during the Songkran festival and is set to turn himself in tomorrow.
According to Thai News Agency, the Royal Thai Army's spokesperson, Major General Winthai Suwaree, stated that Private Phasit, the soldier involved in the incident, will surrender following the confession. The Army has been transparent in its cooperation with the police, providing information and witness statements to ensure the case is handled fairly and without any attempt to conceal or mitigate the offense.
The suspect admitted to acting alone, stating, "I did it, I admit it," while denying civilian involvement. However, investigators are continuing to verify the facts to determine if any other individuals were involved. Should no accomplices be identified, the case is expected to proceed to a military court as per legal protocols.
Pol. Col. Nipon Nithikarunlert, Superintendent of Chanasongkhram Police Station, reported that the victim and her guardians were called in for further questioning regarding the assault, which allegedly took place in a restroom during the Khao San Road Songkran Festival on April 14th. The review of events confirmed that the soldier initiated contact, but the victim did not consent to leave with him.
A video clip showing the two walking together was deemed irrelevant to the case, which is being treated as child abduction. The victim clearly stated her lack of consent to any sexual activity, while the soldier's actions in breaking into the restroom and assaulting her constitute a clear offense. The soldier is scheduled to turn himself in tomorrow at 8:30 AM.