Bangkok is reeling from a shocking incident involving three minors who allegedly set a homeless man on fire and filmed the act. The attack, which occurred on 19 January 2024, has sparked outrage across Thailand and raised serious questions about youth behaviour and accountability.
Details of the Incident
The victim, identified as 51-year-old Karn, was reportedly asleep under the Ban Ma Bridge in Bangkok’s Prawet district. According to reports, Karn initially felt something cold splashed on him—later identified as an accelerant—before flames erupted. Despite suffering injuries, Karn managed to escape and expressed his fear about the ongoing harassment he had been subjected to by the three boys over the last few months.
- Karn had previously encountered the boys, who would throw rocks and verbally abuse him.
- Video footage shows two boys near the bridge while the third appeared to film the incident.
- The attack resulted in damage to a nearby water pipe, prompting an ongoing assessment of the situation.
Legal Consequences
Local police have confirmed the identities of the minors, who are aged between eleven and fifteen, although their names are protected under child protection laws. They are expected to face charges of attempted murder, arson, and property damage.
Despite their youth, community outrage has led some netizens to call for serious repercussions that would be imposed on adult offenders. Legal experts are now discussing how the judicial system could respond to such serious acts by minors.
Public Reaction
The incident has triggered a flood of reactions on social media, with many expressing their dismay at the lack of empathy shown by the children involved. Community discussions are underway, focusing on the need for better educational measures and support for vulnerable individuals like Karn.
Karn’s experience is a sobering reminder of the challenges faced by the homeless population in urban areas and the urgent need for awareness and action to prevent future occurrences.