Police Rescue 17-Year-Old from Online Prostitution
Thai police and social welfare officers rescued a 17-year-old girl who was soliciting clients for sexual services through a popular online app. The operation followed a tip from social workers who spotted the minor's advertisements. Authorities are now investigating to identify and prosecute anyone who engaged her services, warning that such acts carry penalties of up to three years in prison and fines up to 60,000 baht.
On October 23, 2026, Pol. Lt. Col. Siam Boonsom, Commander of the Provincial Police, along with Pol. Lt. Col. Pallop Anomla, Deputy Commander, Pol. Lt. Col. Thanachot Rueakdee, and Pol. Capt. Piyarach Wessakosol, Deputy Chief of the Child and Women Protection Division, ordered Pol. Capt. Chakri Nariphon, an investigator with the division, to assist 'Ms. A' (pseudonym), a 17-year-old girl involved in prostitution via an online platform.
The operation took place on October 22 at 8:30 PM after social workers from the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security coordinated with the Child and Women Protection Division upon discovering a 17-year-old youth posting advertisements for prostitution services online.
The Child and Women Protection Division Task Force 1, together with social workers, rescued the girl to enter her into the welfare protection and assistance process. Preliminary examination confirmed behavior related to advertising prostitution services through an online platform, and address information is under investigation to expand the probe into individuals who may have used the services. Police are currently verifying facts, gathering evidence and witnesses, and identifying involved persons for legal action.
Pol. Capt. Chakri emphasized public awareness that engaging in sexual acts with persons over 15 but not yet 18 years old in a prostitution context may constitute an offense under Section 8 of the Prevention and Suppression of Prostitution Act B.E. 2539, punishable by 1-3 years imprisonment and a fine of 20,000-60,000 baht, with each case considered on its facts and legal elements.
