Thai police have arrested an Australian man following the discovery of the body of a 17-year-old girl inside a suitcase in the resort city of Pattaya.
Authorities confirmed on Saturday that the 46-year-old suspect, who denies any involvement in the teenager’s alleged abduction and murder, was taken into custody after being questioned by investigators.
A police official in Pattaya, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said investigators were awaiting the outcome of a post-mortem examination and other forensic evidence before formally filing charges against the suspect.
According to the official, the potential charges include child abduction, murder, concealment of a corpse, and the abduction of a minor for sexual purposes.
Local media reports indicated that the suspect was arrested on Friday at Suvarnabhumi Airport while attempting to purchase a flight ticket to Perth, Australia.
Investigators said CCTV footage showed the suspect entering a condominium in Pattaya during the early hours of Thursday in the company of the 17-year-old Thai girl.
Several hours later, surveillance footage reportedly captured him leaving the building carrying a large black suitcase, which he transported on the back of a motorcycle.
Police later traced the suitcase to an area near a railway track, where it was recovered on Friday.
Upon opening the luggage, officers discovered the body of the teenager, which reportedly bore signs of violence, according to local news outlet Pattaya News.
Authorities have yet to release the victim’s identity, pending notification of her family.
Police said forensic experts are working to establish the exact cause of death, while investigators continue gathering evidence to determine the circumstances surrounding the killing.
The suspect remains in police custody as investigations continue.
The case has attracted widespread attention in Thailand, where authorities have intensified efforts to combat crimes involving foreign nationals.
Last month, the Thai government reduced the duration of visa-free stays for tourists following several high-profile arrests involving foreigners accused of drug trafficking, sex trafficking and operating unlicensed businesses.
Officials said the stricter visa policy is part of broader measures aimed at preventing criminal activities and strengthening border security.
The investigation into the teenager’s death remains ongoing, with police expected to announce formal charges after forensic examinations and evidence collection are completed.
