Asia

Thai man accused of raping and killing German tourist

Associated Press
Published | Updated

Thai suspect Ronnakorn Romruen, 23 years old, is escorted by police as he arrives at the Koh Sichang police station in Chonburi province, Thailand, Monday, April 9, 2019. Ronnakorn has been charged with the rape and murder of a German tourist on the island of Sichang. (AP Photo)

In this March 10, 2019, photo, a roadway lines the rocky coastline of Koh Sichang, Thailand. Police have arrested and charged Ronnakorn Romruen, 23 years old, for the rape and murder of a German tourist on the island. (AP Photo/Nicole Evatt)

Thai police say a local man has been arrested on suspicion of raping and killing a German tourist on the island of Koh Si Chang in the Gulf of Thailand.

Thai police said the victim was approached and attacked by Ronnakorn Romruen, a native of the small island, while she was traveling on her rental motorbike.

Ronnakorn was tracked down and arrested on Monday through a series of CCTV images.

Police say the suspect, who operates a trash collecting boat, admitted to the crimes and said he used drugs before the incident.

The body of the 27-year-old tourist with injuries on head and legs was found Sunday hidden under rocks and a pile of leaves.

Koh Si Chang is a popular weekend destination for both locals and foreigners.