Police bust child-begging gang, investigate trafficking ties in Thailand

[webfact]

 

A sweep operation led by the Satthahip police force has resulted in the apprehension of an alleged gang exploiting children for begging activities during a temple event. The police are investigating potential human trafficking links, focusing on the relationship between the adults claiming to be parents and the children involved.

 

At 10.30pm yesterday, Panya Damlek, the head of Satthahip Police Station in Chon Buri province, received reports of a large number of beggars, both Thai and foreign, present during an event at Satthahip temple. Ranging from young children to elderly individuals, some with physical disabilities, their conspicuous presence raised concerns among locals and tourists, potentially tarnishing Thailand’s image.

 

Panya ordered Suwichak Reungnaumdee, the deputy head of the police station, to investigate, resulting in the detention of eight people. The group consisted of three Cambodian children, two Cambodian adults, and three Thais. They were taken to Satthahip Police Station for further investigation, reported KhaoSod.

 

by Nattapong Westwood

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod.

 

Full story: The Thaiger 2023-10-11

 

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[Chris Daley]

I buy the food from the kids but never eat it.  It goes straight in the bin or give it to the security guard.

 

Anyone who treats their children like that can not be trusted with food.

[hotchilli]

1 hour ago, Chris Daley said:

I buy the food from the kids but never eat it.  It goes straight in the bin or give it to the security guard.

 

Anyone who treats their children like that can not be trusted with food.

Buying the food perpetuates the problem.

[mikebell]

22 hours ago, webfact said:

They were taken to Satthahip Police Station for further investigation,

An evil den of iniquity; rotten from the top down to the scruffiest cop on the beat.