A disturbing string of allegations has shaken parts of Bangkok’s nightlife and social media circles: a man who presented himself as a wealthy, high-society figure on Instagram is now accused of sexually assaulting at least four women after luring them to secluded spots across the city, according to a report filed with the local non-profit Saimai Survive on November 24.
The pattern: charm, Instagram, and isolation
According to Saimai Survive founder Ekkaphop Lueangprasert, two victims — a 19-year-old university student and a 25-year-old private company employee — first sought help from the organisation and later found that two more women came forward after their stories were posted online. At a press conference, both women recounted frightening, similar sequences: contact through social media or in nightlife settings, an appearance of wealth and influence, and then being taken to remote streets where they were allegedly attacked.
The suspect reportedly cultivated a “hi-so” image — a Thai shorthand for high-society — by frequently posting photos of himself in designer clothing and luxury accessories on Instagram. That presentation, investigators and advocates warn, can be used to lower a person’s guard and create a false sense of security before isolating and assaulting them.
Two accounts, two locations
The younger victim said the incident occurred in the early hours of November 22. After the suspect noticed her social updates showing she was out with friends near Ratchayothin, he persistently messaged her and convinced her to step outside the venue. She said he persuaded her into his vehicle and drove her to a secluded spot in Soi Prasert-Manukit 2, where she alleges she was raped. The woman described being choked, having her mouth covered, and her hair pulled; despite attempting to fight back, she said the assault continued for around 40 minutes. She later said the man threatened legal action if she reported him.
The second victim told a similar, chilling story from the night of November 21. After meeting the same man at a nightclub in Thong Lo, she accepted his offer of a ride home. Instead of taking her to her destination, she says he diverted to a dark stretch of Pridi Banomyong Road, tried to kiss her against her will, and refused her attempts to call friends by taking her phone. He allegedly drove to another isolated location and attempted to sexually assault her. She managed to escape when another vehicle passed by and a woman from that car helped her get away.
Two reports, more voices
The 19-year-old student has filed a complaint with Phahonyothin Police Station. The second woman told Saimai Survive she has not yet filed an official report. Both say they felt pressured and threatened — a tactic experts say can silence survivors and complicate investigations.
Saimai Survive has alerted police in the relevant districts to help expedite an investigation. To date, officers have not released further information about the suspect or any charges, and no formal statement from law enforcement has confirmed arrests tied to these allegations.
Why social media matters — and how to stay cautious
This case underscores the risks that can come with online impressions. A carefully curated Instagram feed showcasing luxury brands, upscale hangouts and a glamorous lifestyle can convey trustworthiness and social standing, but it can also be weaponised to manipulate and exploit. Safety advocates advise using caution when interacting with new people online, meeting in public and well-lit areas, and ensuring friends know your plans. For nightlife encounters, consider sharing live locations, letting someone close by know who you’re leaving with, and keeping phones charged and accessible.
Support and next steps
Community groups like Saimai Survive provide immediate assistance and advocacy for survivors, helping them navigate reporting and receive support. Anyone who has experienced sexual violence is encouraged to seek help from trusted organisations, medical professionals, and legal counsel. For those who witnessed suspicious activity or who may have additional information about this case, contacting local police or Saimai Survive could be crucial to the investigation.
As the city waits for official updates, the stories shared by these women have already prompted two more survivors to speak out. Their courage highlights both the endurance of victims and the importance of public awareness in prompting authorities to act. In situations like these, community vigilance, timely reporting, and support services can make a real difference.
Police have yet to release details on whether charges will be filed or whether arrests have been made. Saimai Survive and the victims are urging a swift and thorough investigation into the allegations, and the public is watching closely as law enforcement follows up on the leads provided.
This is terrifying — I won’t go out alone after reading this.
I read the part about being pushed into a car and my stomach dropped. This could happen to anyone who thinks a designer watch means safety.
People blaming victims need to stop. We also need better policing and safer nightlife options.
Thanks, Maya, staying in groups is the only safe choice for now.
This story shows how performative wealth on Instagram can be weaponized. The psychological manipulation is textbook — projecting status to lower defenses. Authorities should consider social media evidence early in the investigation.
As a clinical psychologist I see this pattern of grooming a lot. Status signals are powerful social shortcuts. Trauma-informed interviewing is critical.
I worry about rush-to-judgment online campaigns. Accusations should be verified before ruining lives.
Verification is important, but silence and secrecy protect predators. The state of delayed reporting is often why there are fewer convictions.
Isn’t there a danger of trial by social media? I get the outrage but we should be careful about public accusations without court findings.
Sure, but when multiple independent accounts line up we have to take them seriously. Social media is a place for leads, not verdicts.
I think social media blames both ways — people overshare and predators use it. But mob justice on Instagram scares me.
As someone who works with survivors, I can tell you oversharing does not justify assault. Our priority is supporting victims and bringing facts to police. Please use caution before blaming survivors publicly.
I hear you, but don’t expect everyone to stop asking hard questions.
Survivors need support, not interrogation. However, transparency from NGOs and police helps trust the process.
I’m proud of the women who spoke up, it takes enormous courage. But the system feels slow and biased toward the accused with money. We need faster protective measures for survivors.
Is it bias or due process? Wealthy suspects deserve legal rights too.
Due process is essential, but investigations shouldn’t be delayed by influence. The victims shouldn’t have to wait.
I’ve taught teens about internet safety for years, and this is exactly why we emphasize meeting in groups and passing live locations. Education can reduce risk but it won’t eliminate predators. Policy and policing must also do their part.
We also need to study how societal admiration for ‘hi-so’ culture enables abuse. Cultural deference can silence victims and empower offenders. Research funding for prevention would help.
From a legal perspective, collecting digital evidence quickly is crucial. Preservation orders and cooperation with platforms can make or break a case.
Exactly — trauma-informed evidence collection increases reporting and conviction rates. Courts must adapt to social-media-centered grooming.
I agree with both of you, and we should be pressing lawmakers for specific statutes. It’s not just policing; it’s legislative frameworks.
I was almost in a similar situation years ago when a man used his ‘connections’ to get me into a backroom. I left but I still get anxious in clubs. These stories remind me how close calls can become tragedies.
Same here — friends saved me once by staying nearby.
Hold on to those friends, they might have saved your life.
We should organize safe-ride groups and hotlines for party nights. The community must fill gaps where law enforcement is slow.
Police transparency is vital, and the public deserves updates without compromising investigations. If authorities drag their feet, public trust evaporates.
I’ve filed complaints before and it took months to even get an officer to take notes. This pattern discourages reporting and protects predators.
That’s why independent oversight and timelines for response could help. NGOs can also act as intermediaries to push police action.
From inside, cases surge and resources are thin; investigators prioritize what leads are strongest. Still, communication with victims can be better and must improve.
I hope this leads to arrests and real justice, not just trending threads. The victims’ bravery could stop future assaults if authorities act. The city needs to make nightlife safer for women.