PATTAYA, Thailand – A 70-year-old British man was injured in an assault on Jomtien Beach on Thursday, Sept. 3, with police arresting a Thai man who allegedly kicked and punched him before attempting to flee. Rescue workers from the Sawang Boriboon and Pattaya police patrol officers were called to the beach near Jomtien Soi 10 after receiving reports that a foreign tourist had been assaulted.
At the scene, officers found Anton Gilmour Wild, 70, a British national, suffering facial injuries and swelling. Rescue workers provided first aid before taking him to hospital for treatment. Police also detained a Thai man, believed to be about 35, who allegedly carried out the assault. During initial questioning, the man claimed the injured British man was involved in the theft of a motorcycle and said he had followed him to Jomtien Beach after allegedly finding evidence connected to the theft in his possession.
Police did not immediately accept the claim, noting that the suspect gave inconsistent accounts and appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. While officers were holding him, the man allegedly tried to run away but was quickly caught and handcuffed. Witnesses told police that the suspect had crossed the road and approached the British man, who was sitting and talking with foreign friends on the beach. After speaking with him, the suspect allegedly kicked him in the face, knocking him to the ground, before punching him again.
Good Samaritans intervened and stopped the assault before notifying authorities. Police took the suspect to investigators at Pattaya Police Station for further questioning. Officers are investigating the circumstances of the assault, including the suspect’s claim concerning the alleged motorcycle theft, before deciding on further legal action.
