Samut Sakhon Woman Burned and Tortured by Husband Escapes and Seeks Justice
SAMUT SAKHON – A 32-year-old woman has taken a courageous step toward justice after surviving a horrifying ordeal at the hands of her estranged husband. The woman, identified only as Ms Bua for her protection, was brutally assaulted, tied up, and burned with a hot iron inside a house where she was lured under the false pretense of visiting her children.
The attack, which occurred on June 12, 2025, was so violent that Ms Bua still bears serious wounds and may suffer permanent scarring. Her husband not only physically abused her, but also raped her, threatened her life, and assaulted her in front of their two young sons, aged six and seven.
Despite being separated for some time, the couple remained legally married. According to Ms Bua, her husband used their children as bait to manipulate her into visiting his home. Once inside, she was dragged to a room, tied to a security grille, punched repeatedly, and had a hot iron pressed against her face and leg for nearly an hour.
After the attack, he locked her inside the house. A woman believed to be an accomplice helped hold her captive. Denied medical care, she was told her husband would treat her wounds himself. With her face swollen and skin burned, she made a desperate escape through a window and hid at a neighbor’s house before being taken to the hospital.
Still in pain over 20 days later, Ms Bua decided to speak out. She contacted social activist Guntouch Pongpaiboonwet, also known as Gun Jompalang, through a friend who was shocked by her injuries. Mr. Guntouch personally brought her to Pol. Col. Sor Suetrongpanich, the station chief, and officers from the Provincial Social Development office to formally report the abuse.
In her statement, Ms Bua described years of mounting violence, fueled by her husband’s jealousy and possessiveness—even after both had entered new relationships. She emphasized that the latest assault was the worst yet.
“He told me even if I died, nothing would happen to him,” she told police, claiming he boasted of having connections within the police force.
However, Pol. Col. Sor confirmed he had no connection to the accused and assured the public that the case would proceed legally and impartially.
Pol. Lt. Col. Taweesak, who is handling the investigation, confirmed that the incident was reported two days after it happened due to the woman’s inability to leave the home. Police have since questioned the suspect and are gathering medical records and witness testimony to build a strong case.
Guntouch emphasized that no partner has the right to treat another as property. “When a relationship ends, it should end with dignity and safety, not violence,” he said. He has since helped secure Ms Bua a safe place to stay and assisted her in finding employment. For her protection, her workplace remains undisclosed.
Ms Bua, now recovering under police and social protection, said she no longer fears exposing the truth. “No argument or suspicion justifies this kind of abuse,” she stated. “I want a divorce. I will never go back to him.”
She continues to receive medical and psychological care, but the emotional and physical scars are deep. Despite threats from her abuser urging her to keep quiet, she remains determined to press charges and reclaim her life.
Authorities are urging anyone aware of similar cases to report them. Domestic violence continues to be a critical issue in Thailand and beyond, and the courage shown by survivors like Ms Bua sheds light on the urgent need for legal reform, community support, and survivor advocacy.
