Police intensify probe into UAE human trafficking case

Police are set to deepen their investigation into a suspected human trafficking ring following the rescue of a 21 year old Thai woman who was deceived into travelling to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for work, only to be forced into the sex trade.

The young woman, originally from Lampang, arrived yesterday at U-Tapao Airport in Rayong, according to Kosolwat Inthuchanyong, Director-General of the Office of Rights Protection, Legal Aid and Enforcement. Upon her return, officials from the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security will interview her to determine if she is indeed a trafficking victim.

The woman recounted that she responded to a job advertisement for overseas employment she found on social media. She was interested in working in traditional massage abroad and agreed to go to the UAE due to the promise of high wages, with a clear stipulation that she would not engage in any sex services.

Upon her arrival, however, the owner of the massage shop confiscated her passport and coerced her into having sex with customers. She refused and sought help, which eventually garnered media attention.

Kosolwat stated that officials will request police intervention to investigate those behind the trafficking ring, assuming she is confirmed as a trafficking victim.

Her case came to light when her grandmother pleaded with state agencies to rescue her granddaughter, reported Bangkok Post.

“After receiving the complaint, prosecutors collaborated with the Department of Consular Affairs to provide necessary assistance,” Kosolwat added.

In related news, police in Chachoengsao, a province east of Bangkok, arrested a woman suspected of tricking another woman into working as a prostitute in the United Arab Emirates.

She is one of six suspects in the case. The alleged victim told authorities she was invited to work as a masseuse at a spa in Dubai. The woman who invited her was called “Ms. Lilly” and promised her a 40,000 baht monthly salary.

After she flew to Dubai in September, Ms. Lilly confiscated her passport and ordered her to give clients sexual services.