Somluck Kamsing, who made history by winning Thailand’s first Olympic gold medal in boxing at the 1996 Atlanta Games, has been accused of sexually assaulting a 17-year-old girl, according to police.
The girl filed a complaint against Somluck on Sunday night, claiming that he had molested her at his home in Bangkok after inviting her to watch a movie with him. She said that Somluck had also sent her inappropriate messages and photos on social media.
Somluck, 47, denied the allegations and said that he had only hugged the girl as a friend. He said that he had known the girl for about a year and that she had often visited his home with other friends. He also claimed that the girl had asked him for money and that he had refused to give her any.
“I have never done anything wrong to her. I have never touched her in a sexual way. I have never sent her any nude pictures. I have evidence to prove my innocence,” Somluck told reporters on Monday.
Somluck said that he was willing to cooperate with the police and that he was ready to face legal action if the girl persisted with her accusations. He also said that he was saddened by the damage done to his reputation and his family.
“I have worked hard to achieve my Olympic dream and to make my country proud. I have never been involved in any scandal or crime. I hope that the truth will come out soon and that justice will be served,” Somluck said.
Police said that they were investigating the case and that they had collected evidence from Somluck’s home and phone. They said that they would question both parties and witnesses before deciding whether to press charges.
Sexual assault is a serious crime in Thailand, punishable by up to 20 years in prison. The country has seen several high-profile cases of sexual violence involving celebrities, athletes, and politicians in recent years. In 2020, five teachers were accused of sexually assaulting a girl in a school in Nakhon Ratchasima province. In 2021, former USA Gymnastics coach John Geddert was charged with human trafficking, sexual assault, and other crimes related to his role in the Larry Nassar scandal.
