Thai Man Arrested for Assaulting Russian Tourist in Pattaya; Claims He Acted to Protect Daughter
Pattaya, Thailand – A violent altercation between a Thai man and a Russian tourist in Pattaya has taken a disturbing turn, with the suspect claiming he attacked the foreigner in retaliation for allegedly molesting his 2-year-old daughter. Police, however, remain skeptical as the accused—a repeat offender with a history of drug crimes—was found in possession of methamphetamine at the time of his arrest.
The Incident
On June 9, 2025, 54-year-old Russian tourist Mr. Gurov reported to Pattaya City Police that he had been struck on the head with a wooden object and robbed near Dongtan Curve. According to his complaint, the assault occurred in the early hours of the morning, leaving him injured and missing personal belongings, including a ring.
The Arrest
Later that night, Pattaya police, led by Colonel Anek Sarathongyoo and Lieutenant Colonel Torlap Tinamat, conducted a raid on an abandoned building near Chaiyaphruek 2 Road, where they apprehended two suspects:
- Paisal “Chicken” Jetjaroen, 40
- Kitti “Wut” Khamduang, 38
During the arrest, authorities seized 44 methamphetamine pills and two bags of crystal meth. Police confirmed that 40 pills and the crystal meth were found on Paisal, while Kitti possessed the remaining four pills. Both men admitted ownership of the drugs.
The Shocking Allegation
Paisal confessed to assaulting Gurov but claimed he acted in defense of his 2-year-old daughter, who had allegedly been left unattended on a tricycle while he was nearby. He told investigators that he saw Gurov touching the child’s chest and attempting to inappropriately grope her, which enraged him.
“I confronted him, but he attacked me first,” Paisal claimed. “I hit him with a piece of wood and took his things before running away.”
Police Skepticism
Despite Paisal’s claims, authorities are treating his story with caution. Investigators noted that:
- Paisal has a lengthy criminal record, including six prior arrests (four for drugs, two for theft).
- He was under the influence of methamphetamine at the time of the incident.
- No independent witnesses or CCTV footage has yet corroborated his molestation allegations.
“We are still verifying his version of events,” said a police spokesperson. “Given his history and the drugs involved, we must carefully examine all possibilities.”
Legal Proceedings
Both suspects have been charged with drug possession, while Paisal faces additional counts of assault and robbery. They are currently detained at Pattaya City Police Station as the investigation continues.
Public Reaction
The case has sparked debate in Pattaya, a city heavily reliant on tourism. Some locals sympathize with Paisal’s claim of protecting his child, while others question the credibility of an intoxicated repeat offender.
“If what he says is true, any father would react the same way,” said one resident. “But if he made it up, it’s a disgusting excuse for violence.”
Meanwhile, Gurov’s condition and official statement remain undisclosed as police work to uncover the full truth.
What’s Next?
Authorities are reviewing additional CCTV footage and witness statements to determine whether Paisal’s allegations hold merit. If proven false, he could face even harsher penalties for fabricating a defense.
