A Swiss woman who traveled to Thailand as part of a model project for tourism is dead. There are indications of rape and murder. An autopsy should bring clarity.
Phuket – A Swiss woman has been found dead on the Thai holiday island of Phuket. Evidence indicated that the 57-year-old was first raped and then murdered, reported the newspaper “Bangkok Post”, citing the police.
The woman, who traveled to the kingdom’s largest island in mid-July as part of a model project for tourism in Corona times, was discovered lying dead in the water near a remote waterfall in the south of the island. The body was therefore covered with a black tarpaulin, shorts, a smartphone and a passport were found nearby.
Autopsy should bring clarity
According to the authorities, the Swiss woman’s death was probably no more than three days ago. An autopsy should bring clarity. The victim is said to have traveled from Singapore. The police started an investigation to clear up the woman’s death as soon as possible. Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai expressed his condolences to the Swiss Ambassador to Thailand.
Island Governor Narong Woonciew was deeply concerned about the news in front of journalists. “All competent authorities, including myself, will investigate what happened in order to do justice to the victim.” The body is to be autopsied on Phuket. The results of the autopsy might be made public on Friday, said the director of the responsible hospital.
Foreign Minister shocked
Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai expressed his condolences to the Swiss Ambassador to Thailand. The Swiss honorary consul on Phuket, Andrea Kotas Tammathin, was shocked and spoke of a “sad day” for the island. “Phuket is usually known for its friendliness and kindness.”
Fully vaccinated people from almost 70 countries have been able to travel to Phuket again since July 1st. As part of the so-called “sandbox” project, guests have strict rules, but they are allowed to move freely around the island. The government wants to try to at least partially revive the tourism sector, which has been on the ground for a year and a half due to the corona pandemic. dpa
