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The Royal Thai Police (RTP) and the Mirror Foundation have issued a public warning for parents to be vigilant during National Children’s Day events in Thailand due to the risk of child trafficking. This announcement comes in light of 256 reports of missing children in 2025. Authorities stressed that children could be targeted by trafficking networks at celebratory fairs nationwide on Saturday.

This alert was highlighted during a press conference ahead of Children’s Day, traditionally held on the second Saturday of January. Concerns have been raised about call-centre gangs luring children, a trend identified over the past year. The RTP and the Mirror Foundation emphasized that such networks might exploit gatherings during the event to abduct children.

Safety recommendations for parents include taking recent photos of children, having them wear name tags with essential contact details, and instructing them on seeking help if lost. Parents are also advised to call the emergency hotline 191 immediately if their child goes missing.

In 2025, the Mirror Foundation reported handling 256 missing child cases, with 96 boys and 169 girls involved. Although most have been found, 47 cases remain unresolved. Missing cases were categorized as those who left home voluntarily, cases involving separated spouses, children deceived by scam gangs, and a small number of kidnappings.

A poignant example involves a 16-year-old boy who disappeared after being lured into a fraudulent job in Cambodia. His mother, Somporn, filed a complaint following his disappearance. Her son's plight included being forced to work for a call-centre gang, and, despite efforts coordinated by Thai and Cambodian authorities, his whereabouts are currently unknown.

The RTP reported handling 279 trafficking cases in 2025, resulting in 366 arrests and the rescue of 317 victims. These cases covered forced sex work and labor, with 213 victims identified as children and youths. This underscores the urgency and scale of the trafficking challenge in the region, reported The Nation.

Key Takeaways

• Thai authorities warn of trafficking risks ahead of Children’s Day.

• In 2025, 256 missing child cases were reported; 47 remain unresolved.

• Police handled 279 trafficking cases with 213 child victims identified.

Related stories:

RTAF to Showcase F-16s, Gripens on Children’s Day, Jan 10

Thailand Gears Up for Spectacular National Children’s Day Events

  

Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2026-01-08

 

 

Yep, watch carefully. Some of those guns could be loaded.