Missing Burmese Girl Found, Alleges Family Abuse

Photo via Facebook/ ข่าวนนทบุรี

In a troubling series of events, a 15-year-old Burmese girl, previously reported missing in Thailand, has refused to return home, alleging physical abuse by her parents. The teenager, named Bee, vanished from her residence in Nonthaburi on 24 July, sparking concerns from her parents, Mamat Ye Hinn, 45, and Asha Bwe, 40.

Desperate for help, the parents alerted Thai news outlets on 12 August, fearing their daughter could be in grave danger. However, after weeks with no leads, the mystery of Bee's whereabouts was solved when she was found at a friend’s house in Ayutthaya, as reported yesterday by Superintendent Somchai Jaeng-dhamma of the Bang Si Mueang Police Station.

Bee’s friend’s family, recognising her from news reports, encouraged her to contact the authorities. Bee then made her way to the police station in a taxi. Although she couldn’t pay the fare, attempting instead to offer her mobile phone, the police covered the cost.

In a turn of events, Bee expressed her reluctance to return home, articulating claims of forced labour and physical abuse by her parents. The authorities have now placed her under the care of the Nonthaburi Provincial Shelter for Children and Families.

Warin Weerasunthon, the shelter’s leader, mentioned that this is not an isolated occurrence. Bee has reportedly run away from home multiple times — between seven and eight occasions — and has previously fled from the shelter as well.

The shelter aims to support Bee by assisting her in acquiring an identification card and encouraging educational and vocational training. Warin is also considering continued shelter care for Bee, seeking her parents' cooperation to ensure her safety and avoid repeating past incidents.

These developments underscore a pressing social issue involving family conflict and the need for protective measures for vulnerable youths. As this story unfolds, the focus remains on providing a safe and supportive environment for Bee, while addressing her allegations seriously.

This case highlights broader societal challenges surrounding child welfare and the vulnerability of migrant families in foreign lands. It calls for an ongoing dialogue on safeguarding children and ensuring their right to a safe and nurturing environment.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-08-19