BANGKOK, THAILAND – A 43-year-old man was held in pre-trial detention after allegedly sexually harassing a reporter during Songkran celebrations on Silom Road and failing to post a 100,000-baht bail set by the court.
Incident during Songkran on Silom Road
The case stemmed from an incident on 13 April at around 4:30 p.m., when the man allegedly harassed the reporter while she was covering the Songkran festivities on Silom Road. According to investigators, he was accused of touching the journalist’s buttocks with his hand while she was on duty.
Police investigation and admission
The investigation was led by Pathumwan Police Station, which identified the suspect and handed the case over to judicial authorities. During questioning, the man admitted to the allegation, according to the investigators.
Charge under Section 278 of the Criminal Code
The suspect was charged with committing an “indecent act” against a person over 15 years of age under Section 278 of the Thai Criminal Code. On this basis, investigators requested that he be placed in pre-trial detention while the proceedings continued.
Court appearance and detention request
Officers from Pathumwan Police Station brought the suspect, identified as Methasit, before the South Bangkok Criminal Court on Charoen Krung Road. There, they requested an initial 12-day detention order, which the court approved.
Bail denied over flight risk and lack of security
Investigators and the victim opposed his release on bail, citing concerns that the suspect might flee. The man still applied for temporary release, but the court set bail at 100,000 baht in cash, which he was unable to provide.
Transfer to Bangkok Remand Prison
After the failed bail payment, the court issued a detention order and the suspect remained in custody. He was then transferred by officers to Bangkok Remand Prison, where he was to stay pending further legal steps.
Your view
The case raised questions about how media organizations and event organizers could better protect reporters in dense festival crowds such as Songkran. It also prompted debate over whether stricter bail conditions should apply in such incidents or whether more prevention and visible police presence were needed.