Chiang Mai police, along with affiliated agencies, raided a massage parlour suspected of employing minors on Tuesday, all under 18 years old, for providing illicit sexual services to customers.
The owner of the massage parlour, identified as 21 year old Natthanaree Puangmala, was allegedly facilitating the provision of these services secretly to customers who engaged with the massage facilities. The cost for these services was 3,000 baht. The concerning factor was the involvement of several underage individuals, all reportedly under the age of 18.
Police officers delved deeper into the operations of the parlour, unearthing a financial ledger that suggested monthly bribes totalling 20,000 baht were being paid to various government officials. This discovery opened a new line of inquiry for the investigation.
The immediate action saw six underage victims rescued from the parlour. They were then escorted for questioning under the watchful eye of various Thai multidisciplinary agencies. These agencies are now tasked with providing the necessary support and counselling services to the victims.
Natthanaree Puangmala, the owner of the massage parlour, is now in custody at the Mueang Chiang Mai Police Station. A thorough interrogation is expected to follow.
Police have seized computer equipment and CCTV footage from the premises to aid their investigation. Natthanaree faces serious accusations, including facilitating illegal prostitution and operating a healthcare facility without the necessary licencing.
The police shared that they have been monitoring this massage parlour for some time. The establishment had a habit of relocating frequently, presumably to evade law enforcement. However, the vigilance of the investigative team paid off, leading to the successful operation and the rescue of the underage victims, reported Pattaya News.
There is more to come in this case. The alleged involvement of government officials, as suggested by the discovered financial ledger, brings another layer to the situation. A thorough investigation into these allegations is anticipated.
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