A 21-year-old British woman has been arrested in Thailand after allegedly fatally stabbing her boyfriend, according to local media reports. The incident occurred in the Pattaya area, a beachside region two hours from Bangkok known for its large expat population and nightlife.
Discovery of the body
The Bangkok Post reported that on Thursday morning local time, officers found the body of a 34-year-old man, who operated a cannabis farm, in a luxury rental home. Police officers found the man lying in a bathroom attached to a bedroom with several stab wounds. Police believe the man had been dead for six hours before they arrived.
Arrest and investigation
The victim’s girlfriend was found sitting near the body. Police told the Bangkok Post that a 50cm machete-like knife had been washed clean in a sink. The woman claimed her partner had injured himself, but investigators found inconsistencies in her account. The Bangkok Post added that the victim’s body appeared to have been moved, while bloodstains and signs of a struggle were found throughout the house.
Images and video footage
Images from Pattaya Cable TV show police at the property while the young woman with red hair sits on a couch in a large room with purple curtains. In another clip, the woman is questioned by police outside the home.
Cannabis legalisation context
Thailand became the first country in Asia to legalise cannabis in 2022, which led to an explosion in marijuana shops across the country. Although laws were introduced last year banning recreational use, it is still sold widely.
UK government response
A spokesperson for the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said: “We are supporting the families of two British nationals in Thailand and are in contact with the local authorities.”
