Thai FM orders probe into book fair confrontation involving Chinese visitor

Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said today that he had ordered a fact-finding inquiry into an altercation between a Chinese national and a Thai security guard at a Bangkok book fair, stressing that the investigation would establish the truth and ensure fairness for all parties.

The move came after the Chinese Embassy in Thailand called on Thai authorities to investigate an incident on July 25 in which a Chinese woman alleged that security personnel used excessive force while removing her from the event.

Sihasak said officials had been instructed to look into the circumstances surrounding the incident. "This is an incident that can happen," he said.

Responding to criticism posted by Thai social media users on the Chinese Embassy's Facebook page, Sihasak said the embassy had the right to issue a statement.

"The facts still need to be established. I understand the different feelings involved, but we should determine what happened and ensure fairness for everyone. Let's establish the facts first. Once the findings are available, we can discuss the matter," he said.

The Chinese Embassy in Bangkok had earlier called for an immediate investigation into its national's allegation that excessive force was used.

In a statement posted on its Facebook page, the embassy said it had been notified directly by the Chinese citizen involved and had also reviewed a statement issued by the event organiser.

While the two sides have given differing accounts of what led to the confrontation, the organiser, GMMTV, said a preliminary investigation found that an outsourced security guard had "used excessive force at certain points" while handling the situation.

The company said the security guard involved had been suspended from duty.

The Chinese national alleged that another person cut in front of her in the queue, while some Thai witnesses said it was the

Chinese visitor who had attempted to jump the queue, prompting security personnel to remove her.

The embassy urged the relevant Thai authorities to investigate the case promptly and take appropriate corrective measures.

It added that it would provide the necessary consular assistance to the individual and continue to protect the lawful rights and interests of Chinese citizens in Thailand.

The embassy's statement drew criticism from some Thai social media users, who claimed they had witnessed the incident.

Many also expressed surprise that the embassy had intervened so quickly, saying it had taken longer to issue statements on previous incidents involving Chinese citizens in Thailand.