PATTAYA, Thailand – A British man has been arrested in Pattaya after allegedly assaulting a guest house manager with a corrosive liquid, causing serious injuries.
An incident that devolved into chaos occurred on the evening of June 23, when a 40-year-old British national, identified as Richard Langford, reportedly stormed through a guest house in Soi Arunothai 2. He was reportedly searching for his Thai girlfriend, knocking on doors in a desperate search.
When he was unable to locate her, Langford allegedly poured a corrosive substance onto the 43-year-old guest house manager, Wirawan Apimethithamrong. The woman sustained chemical burns and was transported to Chonburi Hospital for treatment.
Attack in the Stairwell
A resident, who identified herself only as Rose, witnessed Langford, wearing a cap and jacket, moving through the building’s floors. She stated that he returned twice, and the manager had informed him that he was not a guest of the establishment.
Shortly thereafter, Rose heard screams and rushed downstairs. She discovered the manager in severe pain following the alleged assault with the liquid.
Arrest After Food Stall Dispute
An anonymous tip from a local resident provided police withcrucial information. Langford was spotted in Soi Chalerm Phrakiat 19, near Soi Buakhao, engaged in an argument with a Thai woman. Police from Pattaya Police Station apprehended him there without resistance.
Eyewitnesses reported that he was loudly demanding the return of his passport and money, expressing his intention to leave Thailand. He was subsequently arrested and is currently in custody.
Suspect Claims Self-Defense
During questioning, Langford asserted that he grabbed and threw a glass containing liquid without realizing it was corrosive. He claimed to have believed it was a household cleaner. He alleged that he had been threatened with a machete and acted in self-defense. Police are currently investigating this version of events, but the machete threat has not yet been officially confirmed.
Passport Held Due to Rental Arrears
Langford’s Thai girlfriend, Supranee from Sisaket, admitted to taking possession of his passport. She stated that Langford had failed to pay his rental fees before leaving the accommodation. She reported entrusting the document to an acquaintance for safekeeping.
The relationship between Langford and Supranee reportedly lasted for about five months. According to Supranee, the relationship was characterized by aggression, property destruction, and damaged mobile phones.
Illegal Stay Since February
Authorities confirmed that Langford’s visa was set to expire in February 2026. He had been residing in Thailand illegally since the prior February. He has been charged with violations of immigration law.
Awaiting further charges are being prepared in connection with the alleged assault on the guest house manager.
Victim Continues Treatment
Wirawan Apimethithamrong remains under treatment at Chonburi Hospital. Investigators discovered traces of the chemical substance on pillows and a doormat at the entrance during their crime scene examination.
The police are working in collaboration with the victim’s family to proceed with the next legal steps. The British national is being held in detention and faces further legal action.