The investigation unit of the Anti-Human Trafficking Division has raided and arrested a gang involved in luring Thai women online to work as spa staff in Benin, where they were threatened and forced into prostitution. Initially, the victims were told they wouldn’t receive any wages as the gang claimed expenses and travel costs had to be deducted first. This operation came to light after six Thai women reported to Benin police seeking help to escape their dire situation. Three suspects denied the charges, claiming they only facilitated employment and were unaware of the coercion involved.
The crackdown on this human trafficking network was ordered by Police Major General Sarut Kaewsofa and executed on September 25. The arrested suspects include Ms. Piyannat, 39, Ms. Viyada, 35, and Mr. Li Yong, 41, a Chinese national, who face multiple charges related to human trafficking and organized crime. Ms. Piyannat was arrested at a rental house in Chachoengsao, while Ms. Viyada and Mr. Li were detained at Suvarnabhumi Airport.
This case unfolded after six women filed complaints on October 12, 2024, claiming they were tricked through TikTok to work as traditional Thai massage therapists in Benin but were instead forced into prostitution. They were threatened and physically abused if they resisted. After realizing the deception, they sought help from the local police in Benin, who assisted in their return to Thailand, where they reported the incident to Thai authorities.
The investigation revealed the trafficking operation involved a clear division of roles, with Ms. Piyannat managing TikTok posts to attract victims, who were then referred to Ms. Viyada and Mr. Li for transport to the spa in Benin, where coercion occurred. Evidence confirmed their involvement, leading to the arrest of all three suspects on multiple charges.
During questioning, Ms. Piyannat denied knowing about the prostitution, claiming her role was only as a recruiter. Ms. Viyada insisted she was just an employee at the spa and unaware of any coercive practices, while Mr. Li chose not to provide a statement. All suspects are now in custody and face legal proceedings.
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This article was rewritten from a Thairath’s news article.
