A Thai woman has been arrested after allegedly orchestrating a failed car bombing targeting a woman she believed to be her husband’s mistress. The improvised explosive device did not fully detonate, sparing the intended victim from serious harm but triggering a major police investigation.
Officers from Don Hua Lor Police Station were alerted to an explosion on the morning of December 24 last year. The female victim reported that an explosive device had fallen from beneath her vehicle and detonated on the road, producing a loud blast and visible sparks.
Police officers, accompanied by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit, examined the scene and determined that the device was a homemade improvised explosive device (IED). According to investigators, the device consisted of four glass bottles, though only one detonated. The explosive had reportedly been attached to the vehicle’s fuel tank and was activated remotely. Despite the alarming nature of the attack, the explosion caused only minor damage and no injuries.
Three Suspects Arrested In Eastern Thailand
Following weeks of investigation, authorities identified three suspects: a 38-year-old woman named Kasama and two men, Somkid and Thinnawat, both aged 34. The trio were arrested in Chon Buri and Rayong provinces on February 25.
Police said several items were seized during raids on their residences, including a remote-control device believed to be linked to the explosion, a vehicle allegedly used in the crime, and around 20 additional pieces of evidence.
Investigators revealed that Kasama allegedly confessed to masterminding the plot after discovering her husband’s alleged infidelity. She reportedly believed the targeted woman was involved in a relationship with her spouse. According to police statements, she hired the two male suspects, said to be her colleagues, to assist in carrying out the plan.
Allegedly Learned Bomb-Making From Online Videos
Authorities said that, based on the suspects’ statements, they researched how to construct the device by watching videos on YouTube. One of the men allegedly installed a tracking device on the victim’s car to monitor her movements. The suspects then used a rented vehicle fitted with counterfeit licence plates to attach the explosive device.
All three now face attempted murder charges under Section 288 of Thailand’s Criminal Law. Attempted murder carries half the penalty of murder, which can include life imprisonment or even the death penalty. They have also been charged under Section 211 for causing an explosion that endangers others or property, an offence punishable by up to seven years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to 140,000 baht — approximately S$5,300.
In addition, the suspects face charges under Thailand’s Firearms and Explosives Act for illegal possession of explosive materials. If convicted, they could face up to 20 years behind bars along with further financial penalties.
The case has drawn widespread attention in Thailand, highlighting the severe legal consequences of violent acts fuelled by personal disputes. Investigations remain ongoing as prosecutors prepare to proceed with formal court action.