Bangkok, Thailand – A shocking incident unfolded late Thursday night, August 7th, 2025, outside a major shopping mall at Ratchaprasong intersection in central Bangkok, leaving two Malaysian tourists hospitalized with burn injuries.
The assailant, identified as 30-year-old Warakorn Phabthaisong, a former professional boxer and recently unemployed security guard, allegedly doused the victims with paint thinner and set them on fire in an unprovoked attack driven by personal frustrations.
The victims, 26-year-old Ong Yik Liang and 27-year-old Ken Siew Sian, both Malaysian nationals, were sitting on the steps of the Big C shopping centre on Ratchadamri Road at approximately 10:00 PM when the attack occurred. According to Lumpini Police Station chief Pol Col Yingyos Suwanno, Warakorn approached the tourists, poured a 1.5-liter bottle of thinner over them, and ignited it with a lighter as they attempted to flee. The victims sustained burns to their faces and bodies but were quickly aided by bystanders who restrained Warakorn until police arrived. Both tourists were rushed to Police General Hospital, where they are reported to be in stable condition.
During questioning at Lumpini Police Station, Warakorn confessed to the attack, claiming it stemmed from stress and desperation. He told authorities he had no personal conflict with the victims but was overwhelmed by unemployment and financial hardship. Warakorn, originally from Sa Kaeo province, revealed he had recently been sacked from his job as a security guard and had been unable to secure new employment despite multiple attempts. “I was very stressed. I had no money, no food, no job,” he reportedly told police. Tests confirmed he was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the incident.
The attack has raised concerns about mental health and economic pressures in Thailand, where unemployment rates have fluctuated in recent years. According to Thailand’s National Statistical Office, the unemployment rate stood at 1.1% in Q2 2025, though this figure masks underemployment and precarious job conditions in urban areas like Bangkok.
Warakorn faces charges of attempted murder, with potential penalties including imprisonment for up to 20 years under Thailand’s Criminal Code. The Department of Social Development and Human Security (DSDHS) is assisting with the case, providing support to the victims and evaluating Warakorn’s mental health. Witnesses praised the quick actions of onlookers who subdued the suspect, preventing further harm
Thai authorities have assured the public that the incident appears isolated, speaking to Bangkok’s generally low crime rate against tourists. Malaysia’s embassy in Bangkok is coordinating with local officials to ensure the victims receive proper care and support.
For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.
