Bangkok authorities have arrested a Polish tourist following an incident where he slapped a Thai woman's buttocks while she was browsing products in a convenience store on Sunday, January 12. The tourist later defended his behavior, claiming ignorance of its legality, as he had reportedly done the same to other women in the past without facing consequences.

According to Thaiger, the victim initially thought the act was a prank by her friend. However, upon turning around, she was shocked to discover that a foreign stranger was responsible. The unexpected assault left her feeling humiliated, especially as store staff and customers witnessed the incident. Distressed, she left the store and later recounted the ordeal to her family, deciding to report the matter to the police.

The woman emphasized that her intention was not to seek compensation from the Polish man but rather to receive an apology and ensure he refrains from such behavior in the future.

Police investigations, aided by CCTV footage from the store, confirmed the identity of the tourist. Officers contacted the management of the condominium where he was staying to notify him of the incident. However, instead of showing remorse or apologizing to the victim, the man dismissed the seriousness of his actions.

"I didn't spank her hard. I've done this many times before in nightclubs and no one complained," he told his agent. He further argued, "I didn't do anything illegal. This isn't a criminal act. Why should I be punished? The police cant do anything to me, and I'm about to leave Thailand."

The man's unapologetic attitude prompted the victim to proceed with legal action. He was subsequently arrested under Section 278 of the Thai Criminal Code, which deals with sexual assault. The law carries a penalty of up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to 200,000 baht (approximately RM26,180.80), or both.

Source: Thaiger