Thai Police Arrest Australian Citizen After Teen Girl Found Dead in Suitcase in Pattaya

International Desk: PNN

Thai authorities have arrested an Australian man after the body of a 17-year-old girl was found inside a suitcase near the tourist city of Pattaya. The case has caused international shock and outrage.

The arrested man has been identified as Simon Carman (46). He was detained Friday night at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport while preparing to board a flight to Perth, Australia, according to police and local media.

Investigators said CCTV footage showed the girl entering a condominium with the suspect early Thursday morning. A few hours later, another footage showed him leaving the building with a large black suitcase, which he later placed on the back of a motorcycle.

The suitcase was later found near railway tracks containing the girl’s naked body. Police believe she was killed after physical assault and severe violence, with visible facial injuries.

The case came to light when the girl’s friends reported her missing on Friday afternoon. Police tracked her last known location, identified the suspect, and alerted immigration authorities, leading to his arrest at the airport.

During interrogation, the suspect denied the allegations. However, police said early investigations strongly suggest his involvement. Scratch marks were found on his body, believed to be injuries from a struggle.

When asked about marks on his neck, he claimed they were caused by a “spider bite.”

He faces charges of murder, concealment of a body, and taking a minor for immoral purposes.

Australia’s Foreign Ministry said it is monitoring the situation and providing consular assistance to the accused citizen.

Authorities noted that recent increases in crimes involving foreigners in Thailand, along with visa policy changes, have raised concerns about law and order in tourist areas.