Here Are the Media’s 'Swedes' Arrested in Thailand

On Monday, several established media outlets reported that two “Swedes” had been arrested in Thailand, suspected of violent crimes committed in Sweden. However, Swedish media have not published the photos from the arrest that Thai police have released.

One of the men arrested in Bangkok is reported to be suspected of, among other things, attempted murder, extortion, and arson in Sweden. At the same time, another Swedish man was arrested who, according to Thai police, had assisted him in evading capture.

The arrest took place on Sunday, August 23, in an exclusive residential complex in the Rama 9 area of Bangkok. This is reported by several Thai media outlets.

According to Thai authorities, the murder suspect entered Thailand on May 17, 2026, and was permitted to stay in the country until August 14. When he was arrested, his permit had expired nine days earlier.

After his arrival, he is said to have stayed hidden at various addresses on Koh Samui and changed accommodation several times. According to police, he spent most of his time inside his lodgings to avoid being detected.

Traveled Around and Hid

During this time, he is said to have received help from a friend who is also described as Swedish. Police indicate that the companion helped arrange accommodation and made sure that the murder suspect received food and other necessities.

The two men later left Koh Samui and went to Bangkok. When Thai police received information that they were in the Rama 9 area, an operation was launched to find them.

On Sunday, police waited outside the residential building. When the murder suspect appeared, he was apprehended by the police. Police then accompanied him to the residence, where his friend was found.

Friend Stayed Illegally

The friend who, according to Thai police, helped the murder suspect evade capture is not wanted in Sweden. However, he had overstayed his tourist visa in Thailand by 195 days and was therefore also arrested.

The man is also reported to have a previous criminal record in Sweden, including for receiving stolen goods and drug offenses.

Once the Thai legal process is completed, both men are expected to be deported to Sweden. At the same time, Thai authorities have made it clear that the country should not serve as a hideout for internationally wanted individuals.

Cooperation with foreign authorities will therefore continue, as will efforts to find and expel persons suspected of crimes.