Malaysians set on fire in Bangkok spoke to attacker moments earlier
According to witnesses, the victims were seen conversing with the man before walking away and sitting on the steps of a shopping mall, Buletin TV3 reported.
The man later approached them again, poured thinner or paint solvent on them, and ignited it with his lighter as they tried to escape.
Bystanders quickly intervened and detained the attacker until police arrived.
During questioning at Lumpini police station, the assailant admitted to the attack, saying he had no personal dispute with the victims.
He linked his actions to severe stress caused by unemployment and hunger.
The former boxer, who had previously worked as a security guard, had recently been laid off and was struggling to find a new job.
The suspect told police he had not eaten on the day of the incident, which heightened his stress and drove him to commit the attack.
A drug test on him returned negative.
Police are now working with the Social Development and Human Security Ministry to assist in the investigation and discuss support measures.
The victims are in stable condition, and authorities plan to take further statements from them as the investigation continues.
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