British Pensioners Faces Imprisonment in Thailand After Violent Attack

Des and Mary Byrne, British pensioners in Thailand, face imprisonment after a violent attack by their neighbors. The couple, who sustained serious injuries, are now accused of causing mental anguish following their refusal to pay a bribe. Their family and a UK MP are seeking aid, but the Foreign Office states they cannot intervene.

British pensioners Des and Mary Byrne are facing imprisonment in Thailand after suffering a brutal attack by their neighbors, who subsequently accused them of causing ‘mental anguish.’ The couple relocated to Hua Hin in 2021, utilizing their savings to build a villa, which swiftly became a scene of distress due to a land access dispute.

In December 2023, the Byrnes confronted individuals trespassing in their garden, who they believed to be their neighbors. The situation escalated violently, with one attacker, reportedly from the UK, physically assaulting Mr. Byrne, leaving him unconscious and injured. His wife, Mrs. Byrne, was also assaulted, resulting in serious injuries including a broken nose and bleeding on her brain.

Initially, the attackers were arrested but later changed their plea to guilty. Nonetheless, the Byrnes were unexpectedly charged with causing “superficial injuries and mental anguish.” Currently, they are expected to appear in court, facing potential imprisonment and the confiscation of their passports, hindering their return to the UK.

In response to their situation, the Byrnes have depleted their savings in a bid to clear their names and have sought assistance from British government officials. However, Foreign Office representatives have stated they cannot interfere in Thai judicial processes. The Byrnes are now residing in temporary accommodations, with their family in the UK advocating for their return. They express feelings of confinement and fear, affirming, “It is like a living hell because it is clear to anyone we are the victims in this and somehow we’re going to be brought in front of a court.”

The plight of British pensioners Des and Mary Byrne highlights the complexities and challenges faced by expatriates in foreign legal systems. After enduring a violent attack, the Byrnes find themselves embroiled in a distressing legal battle that has led to their isolation and financial ruin. Despite efforts from their family and local MP to secure assistance, the couple remains trapped in a frightening situation that underscores the need for diplomatic intervention in cases involving abroad citizens.

Original Source: www.dailymail.co.uk