Report Phuket Bar Raid: Trio Arrested for Trafficking Underage Girls

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Photo via KhaoSod

 

In a decisive crackdown yesterday, police in Phuket arrested three individuals accused of trafficking underage girls and a transgender teenager. The operation was spearheaded by Police Major General Songklod Krikkritaya, head of the Anti-Human Trafficking Division (AHTD).

 

The arrests occurred at a bar in Mueang district, with suspects identified as Niracha, 50, along with 21-year-olds Pornchai and Somjai. The evidence found included 5,000 baht and bar fine receipts of 500 baht each for two individuals, Nok and Earn.

 

Authorities had been tipped off about the bar in Rawai subdistrict, suspected of prostituting girls under 18. Undercover agents conducted a sting operation, negotiating sexual services with two 17-year-olds for 2,500 baht each, plus a 500 baht bar fine per person.

 

Following the transaction, police arrested Niracha, the bar's owner; Pornchai, her son; and Somjai, Pornchai’s partner and the bar's manager. The young victims, including a 17-year-old transgender individual, were rescued and will receive protection under the human trafficking victim welfare system.

 

During interrogation, the suspects admitted to their knowledge of the illicit services offered by the minors. It was disclosed that the 500 baht bar fine served as a service fee, with 100 baht redirected to the girls once paid.

 

The suspects face charges of joint human trafficking and have been handed over to AHTD investigators for further proceedings. This case underscores the ongoing battle against human trafficking in the region, highlighting the importance of vigilance and enforcement in protecting vulnerable youth.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-08-15