Phuket –
A well-known bar in Rawai was raided on August 14th by officers from Thailand’s Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division (ATPD), following reports of underage sex trafficking involving girls and transgender youth.
The ATPD told the Phuket Express that Undercover officers arranged to purchase sexual services from two 17-year-old girls, referred to as Ms. A and Ms. B, at a rate of 2,500 baht each, plus a 500-baht “bar fine” paid to the venue. Upon completion of the transaction, officers revealed their identities and arrested three individuals connected to the operation.
The suspects include Ms. Niracha, 50, identified as the bar owner; her 21-year-old son, Mr. Pornchai; and Mr. Somjai, also 21, Pornchai’s partner. All three were taken into custody at the scene, along with evidence including 5,000 baht in cash and receipts documenting the bar fines.
Authorities also rescued a 17-year-old transgender youth, referred to as Mr. C, who was allegedly being exploited at the same venue. All victims were transferred to protective services for screening and support under Thailand’s anti-human trafficking protocols.
During interrogation, the suspects reportedly confessed to knowingly facilitating the sale of sexual services involving minors. Investigators revealed that the bar retained 400 baht from each bar fine, returning only 100 baht to the youth involved.
All three suspects have been charged with human trafficking offenses and were handed over to ATPD investigators for further legal proceedings.
