A British couple living in Thailand say they have been warned to prepare for prison after being attacked by their neighbors in a dispute over access and a small garden.
Mary Byrne, 69, and her husband Desmond Byrne, 77, who moved from Middlesbrough to Thailand in 2021, claim they were kicked and punched by a younger couple in an incident caught on CCTV in December 2023.
Despite their neighbors being prosecuted, the Byrnes now face charges themselves. According to the couple, the British Embassy has advised them that the case could go either way in court.
CCTV Footage Captures Violent Attack
Mrs. Byrne described the attack, stating that their neighbors were Thai kickboxers, and that she was repeatedly stamped on the head, while her husband was punched 22 times.
She insisted that their actions were purely in self-defense. “At one stage, Des did lift his leg in defense, but as far as we know, he did not make contact,” she said.
Initially, the neighbors denied the charges but later pleaded guilty. However, in May 2023, the Byrnes were unexpectedly charged with injuring their neighbors, leading to their fingerprints being taken and passports confiscated.
Legal Uncertainty Leaves Couple Feeling Trapped
The couple is due back in court on Wednesday, where they will learn their fate. “We can’t leave. So, in one way or another, we feel trapped,” said Mrs. Byrne.
Despite the looming uncertainty, she remains hopeful. “We know we’ve done nothing wrong, but we have to prepare for whatever happens.”
UK Officials Pushing for Fair Treatment
Luke Myer, the couple’s former MP, has been in contact with the UK Foreign Office, urging them to ensure fair treatment for the Byrnes.
A Foreign Office spokesperson confirmed they are supporting two British nationals in Thailand and remain in touch with local authorities.
As the couple awaits the court’s decision, they hope for justice and the chance to return home.
