Village Headman Surrenders with Face Covered; Denies Charges in 13-Year-Old Sexual Assault Case, Only Apologizes
A 53-year-old former village headman in Nakhon Phanom Province surrendered to police for allegedly sexually assaulting and abducting a 13-year-old girl on April 28, denying the charges while offering only an apology.
On May 7, 2025, at a police station in Nakhon Phanom Province, 53-year-old Kittipong (surname withheld), a former village headman, surrendered to investigating officer Pol. Lt. Yongyuth Phiwphannoi after the victim's parents filed a complaint. The alleged crime occurred on April 28, 2025, at the suspect's residence.
Police have charged the suspect with two serious offenses: sexual assault of a child under 15 years old and child abduction. The victim, a 13-year-old girl who worked part-time at a seafood restaurant, was from the same village and knew the suspect. He allegedly committed the crime while his wife was visiting a neighboring country. Additional charges are pending evidence collection.
The suspect initially denied all allegations and intends to defend himself in court. Police have opposed bail due to the severity of the charges and concern he may flee. The suspect was taken into custody pending a request for detention at Nakhon Phanom Provincial Court.
According to reports, the former village headman covered his face with a red hat while surrendering and refused interviews, only saying "I apologize." Previously, he had attempted to settle the matter by offering 600,000 baht in compensation to the victim's family, but the family proceeded with filing a police report when settlement negotiations failed.
