Israeli Woman and Daughter Assaulted in Thailand Attacker Released on Bail and Roams Freely
Paul William Berko Gover, who violently attacked a 62-year-old Israeli woman and her 23-year-old daughter last week on Koh Phangan island in Thailand, was released from custody after posting bail of approximately 12,000 shekels. The two Israeli victims, who sustained serious injuries and were hospitalized, were informed of his release. The mother remains hospitalized after undergoing two surgeries, while her daughter was discharged following two surgeries as well.
The mother, identified as M., told ynet from her hospital bed that she and her daughter are fearful and anxious about Gover's release, especially since he was reportedly violent toward police officers during his arrest and required hospitalization himself. She expressed frustration and a sense of injustice that someone who nearly killed two women is now free and roaming around Koh Phangan or Koh Samui. Gover holds a French passport, and the family does not know who paid his bail.
The attack occurred after Gover approached the women at a waterfall on Koh Phangan, asking where they were from. Upon learning they were Israeli, he made antisemitic remarks about Israel's actions in Gaza, which the women declined to discuss. Suddenly, Gover assaulted the mother, and when the daughter tried to intervene, she was also attacked. The mother suffered head injuries, including a bite wound to her ear requiring reconstructive surgery, and had to undergo a procedure to drain fluid from her brain.
The daughter managed to call for help, attracting the attention of two French women, prompting Gover to flee the scene on his motorcycle. Both victims were taken to the hospital. The mother expressed shock that such violence could occur in Thailand, a country she considered safe for Israelis, and called for public awareness about Gover, describing him as a danger to the public, especially Israelis and Jews.
Authorities have not disclosed who posted bail for Gover. The family hopes for intervention from relevant bodies to prevent further risk to the community.
