PATHUM THANI, THAILAND – A large-scale raid dismantled a criminal network that forced minors into prostitution, hidden behind a cat salon front for seven years.
Police storm disguised cat salon
Officers from the Anti-Human Trafficking Division under operation leader Witthaya Sriprasertphap, supported by Division 5, the International Protection Alliance, and the Our Rescue Foundation Thailand, struck on Saturday, May 2, 2026, in Pathum Thani. They arrested three suspects accused of running an illegal sex business behind the facade of a cat salon.
Investigators rescued a 16-year-old girl from the group’s grip and one other victim who was also held there; both were placed under protection.
Three suspects in custody
Among those arrested were Waykyaphat, 33, and Thawatchai, 32, who confessed during interrogation to being the business owners, along with manager Yuwadee, 38. The accused were handed over to Division 5.
All three now face charges of conspiracy to commit human trafficking. Police transferred the suspects to the relevant specialist division for further questioning.
Strict control and exploitation
In total, the company employed 22 workers, of whom about eight were still minors. Employees had to serve multiple customers daily and received their wages only after 30 days of work.
Investigators documented coercive conditions and reported verbal abuse and physical assaults. According to police, the business served almost exclusively as a cover for sexual exploitation.
Millions in profits from illegal business
Financial investigations revealed the network operated through more than ten different bank accounts. Over the past years, transactions of more than 20 million baht were processed.
During searches of a residential house and the business, officers seized over 500 condoms. Police also confiscated numerous mobile phones and electronic devices as evidence for the trial.
Manager confesses high earnings
Manager Yuwadee stated she had worked at the establishment for five years, initially as a masseuse and later promoted to manager. She received a fixed monthly salary of 35,000 baht, while the daily revenue after costs ranged between 7,000 and 20,000 baht. Another victim, who started at age 17, received a monthly income of 20,000 baht and was also placed under protection.