Thai tycoon offers Rs 81,000 for hitting married son's mistress. 'You must slap her at least 10 times'

The businessman's son reportedly abandoned his wife and child for a woman identified as On, who had previously dated another young male relative. (AI-generated image)

A business tycoon in Thailand has sparked outrage and viral attention after publicly offering a reward of 30,000 baht (approximately Rs 81,000) to anyone willing to slap his married son’s mistress at least ten times.

Arnon Rodthong, 65, who owns the largest durian orchard and warehouse in Chumphon province, southern Thailand, posted the offer on Facebook, saying he wanted to “seek justice” for his daughter-in-law. The post was later deleted following backlash, South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported.

Rodthong’s son, Chai, reportedly abandoned his wife and child for a woman identified as On, who had previously dated another young male relative—either Rodthong’s grandson or nephew, according to conflicting media reports. On had joined the family’s durian business as an accountant before allegedly pursuing relationships within the family.

Rodthong accused his son of threatening his wife with a gun and neglecting his responsibilities. “To anyone in Lang Suan district, I will pay 30,000 baht to anyone who slaps my son’s mistress. You must slap her at least 10 times,” he wrote. “Once the job is done, come to me for payment.”

He added that he would cover any police fines incurred and that the offer would remain valid until Chai ended the affair. “I made this post to protect my innocent daughter-in-law,” he said.

Under Thai law, simple assault—including slapping—can result in up to two years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to 40,000 baht (about Rs 1 lakh), or both.

In a follow-up interview, Rodthong placed a stack of 1 million baht (around Rs 27 lakh) on the table to prove his seriousness, but he later withdrew the offer, citing advice from respected peers. “Many people I respect have urged me not to use violence or set a bad example,” he said.

Instead, he announced he would sever ties with his son and reclaim all assets registered under Chai’s name. “My lawyer will transfer those assets to my granddaughter. I forgive him and let him go,” he added.