Thai police presence strengthened after tourists set on fire in Bangkok

Sunday, 10 Aug, 2025 0

Two Malaysian tourists have been seriously injured after a man in Bangkok set them on fire in the street.

The incident occurred in the late evening of August 7.

The suspect reportedly poured thinner onto the couple and set them alight.

The two Malaysians were seated on some steps outside a shopping mall at the time and seemingly had no interaction with the man.

The Malaysia couple were identified as Mr Ong, 26, and Ms Gan, 27.

After being dousing in the chemical, they ran away but the man caught up to them and set them alight.

They remain in hospital in a critical but stable condition.

“Ong sustained second-degree burns across his upper body, both front and back,” said the Malaysian Embassy’s charge d’affaires to Thailand, Bong Yik Jui.

Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong has vowed to bolster tourist police presence and tighter security measures in major tourist areas.

“I extend my heartfelt wishes to the injured and their families, and I assure everyone that Thai authorities will do everything possible to protect and care for tourists, ensuring Thailand remains a safe and attractive destination,” he said.

TravelMole Editorial Team

Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.