Police dismiss backpacker Briton’s island rape claim

THAI police have dismissed a 19-yearold British tourist’s claim that she was raped on the resort island of Koh Tao, after flying to the UK to interview her.

The gap-year student from London had claimed she was drugged, tied up and raped, and said the Thai authorities had not wanted to pursue the case to avoid negatively impacting tourism.

Police today said three officers were sent to England to speak to the woman, adding that their investigation revealed no supporting evidence of an attack.

They said she was not able to provide key details such as where the alleged rape occurred, a detailed description of the suspect or how the alleged rape unfolded, and that they have insufficient evidence to continue investigating.

Thailand’s police commissioner, Police General Chakthip Chaijinda, said: “In conclusion, there’s no new evidence.” Police said they examined a shirt given to them by the woman and found that it had no forensic traces.

Police Major General Surachet Hakphal, Thailand’s acting immigration police chief, said officers began investigating after seeing reports of the woman’s claims in newspapers and online.

She had been threatened with charges of making a false complaint and a ban from Thailand if her allegation proved to be false. Police Major General Hakphal said the woman would not be charged as she never officially filed a complaint.

He said it was the first time Thai police had flown overseas to investigate a claim. “Whenever something like this happens at an important tourist spot, we have to reveal the truth,” he added.

Speaking about the alleged attack last month, the teenager said: “I would urge other young people to stay away. I would never feel safe going back to Koh Tao.”