Authorities in Bangkok are seeking a Norwegian national following a disturbing incident involving an assault and death threats made on a busy skywalk. Viral videos captured parts of the altercation, which occurred on August 1st near the BITEC exhibition center, prompting an investigation by local police and calls for the suspect’s apprehension.
Assault and Threats Erupt on Skywalk
The incident unfolded around 8:30 AM on an elevated walkway connecting the Udom Suk BTS Station, Bang Na BTS Station, and the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC). The victim, identified as 29-year-old Ton, was en route to work, a commute he had made for over three years. According to Ton, he initially heard a foreign man shouting but attempted to ignore it. However, the situation escalated when the man allegedly approached him and kicked him in the arm, causing his mobile phone to fall.
Ton recounted that the suspect then picked up his phone, removed its protective case, and threw the device onto the ground before continuing to yell at passersby. After retrieving his damaged phone, Ton left the immediate area. He later returned with his friend, Wai, to confront the Norwegian man about the unprovoked attack.
Escalation and Further Threats
According to the two Thai nationals, the foreign suspect claimed he was merely jogging. The confrontation intensified when the man allegedly turned his aggression towards Ton, issuing chilling death threats. Ton and Wai reported that the suspect threatened to slit Ton’s throat and repeatedly stated, “I will kill you.”
Wai began recording the exchange on her mobile phone. In response, the foreigner allegedly became more aggressive, pushing Wai to the ground. The pair then fled the scene and sought assistance from nearby motorcycle taxi operators.
CCTV Captures Further Confrontation
Victims and witnesses reported that the suspect then moved towards a nearby restaurant. CCTV footage circulating online appears to show the foreign man grabbing the mobile phone of the restaurant owner. This action led to the owner confronting the suspect, reportedly armed with a knife.
Ton and Wai emphasized that they had no prior acquaintance with the Norwegian man and had never met him before the incident. They expressed significant concern for their own safety and the well-being of others who frequent the area. They urged law enforcement to locate the suspect swiftly to prevent any further violence or disturbances.
Police Investigation Underway
Following the incident and the subsequent viral spread of video evidence, the Saimai Survive Foundation is assisting Ton and Wai in following up on their complaint filed with the Bang Na Police Station. The victims are seeking assurance that the investigation is progressing and that the suspect will be apprehended. The Norwegian embassy in Bangkok has been contacted for information regarding the suspect’s identity and potential cooperation with the investigation.
Authorities are reviewing all available video evidence and witness testimonies to build a comprehensive case. The incident highlights the importance of public safety in busy urban areas and the need for swift action when such violent encounters occur. The investigation is ongoing, with police actively working to identify and locate the Norwegian national involved in the assault and threats.
