Two Thai bar owners in Udon Thani have been arrested on charges linked to the trafficking and sexual exploitation of underage girls, following an investigation by Thailand’s Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division (ATPD).
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Police announced on 19 June that Ms Suchanan, known as “Jae Pla”, aged 58, and Mr Saroch, aged 60, were arrested at a bar in Mak Khaeng subdistrict, Mueang district, Udon Thani. They face charges of jointly engaging in human trafficking by exploiting prostitution involving individuals aged over 15 but under 18, and jointly receiving benefits from the prostitution of others.
The arrests were ordered by Major General Wittaya Sriprasertphap, commander of the ATPD. Officers from Division 3 of the ATPD worked alongside Mueang Udon Thani police during the operation.
The case stems from an earlier raid carried out on 4 March at a foreign-oriented bar in the same area. During that operation, officers arrested a bar owner and rescued six girls under the age of 18 who were identified as trafficking victims. Investigators found the girls worked at the venue and regularly provided sexual services to customers, most of whom were foreign nationals.
The establishment operated as a nightlife venue serving alcoholic drinks, where female staff socialised, entertained and drank with customers. Investigators later found that girls who left the venue with customers charged 2,000 baht for sexual services and were required to pay a 500-baht bar fine, described by the owner as a “lady special” fee, to the venue before leaving.
Police said the bar fine represented an improper financial benefit derived from the prostitution of girls under the age of 18. Evidence gathered during the investigation led to further arrests.
Subsequent enquiries revealed that the bar operated by the two suspects was linked to the same network as the previously raided venue. Officers had earlier rescued two additional victims, identified under pseudonyms as Ms One, aged 15, and Ms Two, aged 16, from a hotel located about 50 metres from the bar.
When officers inspected the premises, they identified Ms Suchanan as the owner and Mr Saroch, also known as “Kai”, as the manager. Both were taken into custody.
The suspects have denied the allegations during questioning. They were handed over to investigators from Division 3 of the ATPD for further legal proceedings.
Matichon reported that provincial officials from the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security in Udon Thani have been tasked with screening and assisting trafficking victims, protecting their rights and supporting their recovery. The two rescued girls have been placed under the protection of the Udon Thani Children’s and Family Home.
Pictures courtesy of Matichon
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Matichon 20 June 2026