Shop Owner Arrested For Abusing 7-Year-Old Girl
A 69-year-old shop owner in Nong Bua Lamphu province was arrested for sexually abusing a 7-year-old girl multiple times, after her grandmother grew suspicious when the child received unusual cash gifts.
Police reported on July 1 that a 69-year-old man faces charges of sexually abusing a 7-year-old second-grade student in Nong Bua Lamphu province. The incident occurred in May, and the victim's family filed a police report at Sri Bun Rueang Police Station.
According to local officials, the girl's 84-year-old grandmother noticed her granddaughter with 100 baht, unusual since the family typically gives the child only 5-10 baht for shopping at a nearby village store. When questioned, the girl revealed that the shop owner, identified as Mr. K., had given her the money. She gradually disclosed that the abuse had occurred multiple times. Villagers reported suspicions about the shop owner's behavior—he frequently hugged young female customers—but no one had formally reported the matter.
Lieutenant Colonel Tichanon Phuemphuen, deputy investigation chief at Sri Bun Rueang Police Station, stated that the suspect turned himself in voluntarily with no attempt to flee. After investigation, he was released pending further proceedings. Police are gathering evidence and documents to submit to prosecutors. Initially, the suspect denied the allegations but later confessed after additional evidence was collected.
Lieutenant Kittipol Somsit, deputy investigation director, revealed that following the family's complaint on May 14, the suspect initially denied involvement. However, investigators compiled additional evidence leading to charges of child sexual abuse and child trafficking. The suspect subsequently appeared before investigators and confessed.
The victim has undergone questioning with a multidisciplinary team at the provincial prosecutor's office according to child protection procedures. Education officials have visited the area and instructed the school to provide psychological support. Preliminary assessments show the child can continue attending school normally. Police and relevant agencies, including psychologists, are providing assistance. Authorities confirmed they will proceed carefully with the evidence while prioritizing the victim's rights and welfare, working to expedite the case for prosecution.
