Thai karaoke shop owner arrested in anti-human trafficking operation

Tuesday, October 24 marked an important day for the fight against human trafficking in Nakhon Si Thammarat, as officials from the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division (ATPD) and allied agencies undertook a significant operation. The focus of their action was a karaoke store located in Thung Song, a town in the province, which was under suspicion for illicit activities.

The law enforcement team apprehended the alleged proprietor of the establishment, a woman known publicly as 38 year old Yardpirun. She found herself facing charges of human trafficking for exploitation without consent, a crime that involves persons aged over 15 but under 18.

The operation resulted in the rescue of three minors who, according to the reports, had been ensnared in a life of prostitution. What added a layer of complexity to the story is that one of the victims shares familial ties with Yardpirun, the alleged shop owner.

During a public address, the police officers shed light on the tactics employed by Yardpirun. They described how she used social media platforms to advertise job opportunities at her karaoke store, with a particular emphasis on providing a special service to customers. Upon gaining this intelligence, an investigative team was assembled and sent undercover to the establishment, posing as potential customers, reported The Pattaya News.

Their operation yielded undeniable evidence. Yardpirun offered the disguised officers a choice of prostitutes, complete with a prepared room and prophylactics. This led to the immediate arrest of Yardpirun.

In the aftermath of her arrest, Yardpirun reportedly confessed her misdeeds to the arresting officers. She was then escorted to the inquiry officers, where she would face legal proceedings for her alleged involvement in human trafficking said an investigating officer.

“The victims have been lured into prostitution, and one of them was blood-related to the alleged shop owner.”