UDON THANI, THAILAND – Two bar operators have been arrested in Udon Thani on suspicion of human trafficking and exploiting underage girls.
Arrest in Udon Thani’s Red-Light District
On June 19, police apprehended the 58-year-old bar owner, Suchanan, known in the scene as “Jae Pla,” and her 60-year-old manager, Saroch, at their establishment in the Mak Khaeng sub-district. Both are now in custody.
According to the police, they are jointly accused of operating a human trafficking ring. The allegations include the sexual exploitation of girls between the ages of 15 and 18, and profiting from their prostitution.
2,000 Baht for Sex, 500 Baht for the Bar
The alleged business model involved young women entertaining foreign guests. For clients who left the bar with a patron, a fee of 2,000 Baht was charged for sexual services.
Before departing, each girl was reportedly forced to pay a 500 Baht fee to the owner, a charge known in the scene as a “lady special.” Police consider this mandatory bar fee illegal profit derived from forced prostitution.
Network Uncovered in March Raid
This recent operation stems from a prior raid on March 4, when authorities stormed another bar in the same area. During that raid, six individuals under the age of 18 were rescued from a bar owner.
Further investigations revealed that Suchanan’s bar was part of the same network. Two additional victims, identified as “Ms. One,” 15, and “Ms. Two,” 16, have now been freed.
ATPD Chief Ordered the Raid
Major General Wittaya Sriprasertphap, commander of the Thai Anti-Human Trafficking Division (ATPD), personally authorized the arrests. Officers from ATPD Division 3 worked in conjunction with local police.
The suspects were transferred to ATPD investigators on the same day. The evidence collected is considered substantial.
Accused Deny All Allegations
During initial interrogations, both arrested individuals denied all charges, stating they had no knowledge of human trafficking or exploitation.
However, police documentation detailing financial flows, customer frequency, and the fixed pricing structure around the “lady special” reportedly presents a clear picture of the alleged operation.
Rescued Girls Safely Housed
The two rescued victims have been transferred to the local Udon Thani Children and Family Home, where social workers are assisting them. The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security is also providing support.
Meanwhile, the ATPD’s broader investigation is continuing at full pace.