Udon Thani woman forced to sign new loan, assaulted by creditor

A woman reported her creditor for assaulting her in the middle of a market, despite claims of having repaid the loan in full. She was forced to sign an additional loan agreement for 40,000 baht after already repaying both the principal and interest.

The woman, 46 year old Phanomphon from Nong Khon Kwang, Mueang district, Udon Thani province, filed a complaint with Deputy Provincial Police Commander Chakat Tiamwong. She described how, on a recent date, a notorious moneylender climbed over the fence of her rented house, demanding a resolution to a debt issue.

Most recently, on September 16, she was attacked by the lender’s daughter in a public market in Udon Thani. The assailant grabbed her hair and slapped her with a ring-covered hand, causing a forehead injury that bled. Furthermore, she was coerced into signing a loan agreement for an additional 40,000 baht.

Phanomphon explained that last year she borrowed 40,000 baht from Nim, a tea seller at the market, to cover medical expenses for her brother who had an accident. She repaid the loan within five months, including the interest, totalling 48,000 baht.

However, Nim claimed that an additional 40,000 baht in interest was still due. Nim pressured her to convert this interest into a new loan and sign a document acknowledging the debt, which Phanomphon refused. This refusal led to the creditor invading her home and physically assaulting her.

Phanomphon recounted the incident in the market.

“When I was attacked, Nim’s daughter threatened me, saying, ‘You wait for the court summons.’ I challenged her to bring it because I had already cleared my debts. This angered Nim’s daughter, and she assaulted me. I am now concerned for my safety and that of my children because we live in the same market and face constant threats.”

The victim added that she felt somewhat reassured after Deputy Police Commander Chakat Tiamwong promised to ensure justice. If the creditor is found guilty, legal action will be pursued to the fullest extent, reported KhaoSod.

“I am grateful to the Udon Thani police for their support in helping the community.”