Bangkok: Police are coordinating the surrender of a private accused of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl during Songkran festivities at Khao San Road, after the victim reported being threatened with her life during the incident.

According to Thai News Agency, Colonel Niphon Nithikarunlert, Superintendent of Chana Songkhram Police Station, confirmed that investigators have identified the suspect as a military private. The incident occurred on April 14 in a private paid restroom near Rambuttri Road. CCTV footage shows a group of men with military-style haircuts followed by the victim. One man is seen entering the restroom behind her, remaining for approximately 10 minutes before the victim fled to seek help from a fee collector and bystanders at the restroom entrance.

The suspect allegedly confessed to his superiors following an internal military inquiry. Military authorities have reportedly initiated disciplinary action while police finalize the legal process to bring him into custody. "The evidence clearly identifies the perpetrator," Col. Niphon said. "We are currently coordinating with the suspect's unit for him to acknowledge charges, which include statutory rape, abduction, and illegal detention."

Because the suspect is a member of the armed forces, the case is expected to be tried in a military court unless civilian accomplices are identified. Addressing public concerns regarding potential leniency, Col. Niphon insisted that no one would protect the wrongdoer, citing the "outrageous" nature of the crime in a major tourist zone.

The victim, 15, told reporters that she was targeted while playing in the water with friends. She described being approached by a group of about six men who referred to each other by military ranks. "He pushed his way into the stall and strangled me," the victim said. "He told me, 'Don't scream, or I'll kill you.' Someone outside knocked to ask if things were okay, but he shouted back that nothing was wrong."

The victim stated she remained paralyzed by fear for 10 minutes until the suspect finished. She managed to escape and seek help from bystanders, but the group fled into the holiday crowds. "My mental state is currently very poor," she added. "I am still terrified just being near the area. I want the police to prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law." The victim sought assistance from the 'Saimai Tong Rod' (Saimai Will Survive) advocacy group to call for justice.