Phang nga: The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) has launched a sting operation named "Bringing Down the Hardcore Criminal," resulting in the arrest of a karaoke bar owner accused of luring her daughter's friends into prostitution. The operation, conducted by the Anti-Human Trafficking Division and officials from the Phang Nga Provincial Social Development Office, led to the apprehension of Ms. Hathaikarn, known as Fresh, at a karaoke establishment in Lam Kaen Subdistrict, Thai Mueang District.
According to Thai News Agency, the investigation was a collaborative effort between the Central Investigation Bureau, Division 5 of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division, the Phang Nga Provincial Social Development Office, The Exodus Road Thailand, and Our Rescue Thailand. The inquiry revealed that K. Khaeng Karaoke, operational for over five years, was exploiting underage girls for prostitution. Ms. Fresh was allegedly soliciting customers and charging the girls a "job placement" fee of 300-500 baht, allowing patrons to take the girls for sexual services.
The plan culminated in a sting operation where an undercover agent negotiated the purchase of a girl's services for 2,500 baht. The authorities recorded the serial numbers of the banknotes used in the transaction. Ms. Fresh retained 500 baht and handed 2,000 baht to the victim, identified as a 15-year-old girl referred to as Ms. Mew (pseudonym). Once the agent brought the victim to a hotel room, he signaled for police intervention.
A subsequent search of the karaoke bar led to the discovery of Ms. Fresh and four employees, including her 16-year-old daughter. The employees were taken to the Child and Family Welfare Center for questioning, while Ms. Fresh was brought to the Thaimueang Police Station. During the initial interrogation, Ms. Fresh confessed to a list of charges, including human trafficking, procuring minors for prostitution, and operating a prostitution business involving minors.
Ms. Mew, the victim, recounted being invited by her friend's mother to visit from Chiang Mai Province. During her 20-day stay, she was persuaded to engage in prostitution, earning 1,500-2,500 baht per client, with a deduction of 300-500 baht for client acquisition. She disclosed that she had worked on nine occasions since her involvement began.