Incident at cosmetics shop raises alarm
On August 12, at a beauty supply store in Kudjab district, Udonthani province, a man estimated to be between 65 and 70 years old entered the shop and attempted to molest a 26-year-old female cashier. The man reportedly approached the cashier, asking if there were any women around and repeatedly demanded to touch her hand and chest despite her firm refusals. Surveillance footage posted online showed the suspect behaving aggressively and refusing to leave, prompting the staff to quickly alert the authorities.
Ms. Nim, the cashier, explained she was alone behind the counter when the man entered. Usually, two employees staff the counter, but her colleague was momentarily away. The man’s sudden approach caught her by surprise, and she only noticed him once he was right at the counter. He first asked if there were any women working there, then asked to hold her hand. When she denied his request, he escalated his behavior, attempting to grope her chest. She warned she would call the police, but the man begged her not to. He even blocked her exit from behind the counter and tried to touch her forcibly. She had to use a feather duster to fend him off.
In frustration, Ms. Nim told him sternly to leave or she would kick him, but the man only repeated his request to “touch a little” to feel better. She then called a female colleague for help, who asked the man to leave. When he refused and followed her outside, the colleague left to call the police. The suspect continued following, again asking to grope the cashier. Ms. Nim then called a male neighbor who helped chase the man away as he fled on his bicycle.
Concerns about suspect’s mental health and community safety
Ms. Nim shared she had seen the man before, often cycling past and asking if women were “available” at the shop or nearby. She has avoided interacting with him but noticed he frequently makes such advances, targeting women of all ages. She suspects he may suffer from a mental illness and worries about the danger he poses to others, urging family members and officials to take responsibility for his care.
Another employee, Ms. Pui, 28, confirmed the events. She was in the restroom during the incident but heard Ms. Nim’s calls for help. Upon exiting, she confronted the man, warning he would be reported to the police. The man became aggressive, insulting her and trying to grope her as well. Help arrived just in time from a nearby man who scared the suspect away.
The case has caused widespread concern on social media, with many sharing videos of the man cycling near homes and wandering streets, increasing fear among local women. Community members urge relatives and authorities to intervene quickly, fearing the man’s behavior could escalate into more serious crimes if left unchecked.
