Burmese boy, 6, rescued from human-trafficking gang in Thailand as three suspects are arrested
A six-year-old Burmese boy was rescued from an alleged human trafficking gang as police arrested three suspects in Thailand.
The boy was allegedly beaten and starved if he failed to meet quotas while being forced to sell flowers and sweets around Bangkok.
Residents became worried as they saw signs of physical abuse on the hapless youngster, who was often seen roaming restaurants and nightlife venues from 3 pm to 3 am.
Locals finally filed a formal complaint after the boy ran away to seek help from a neighbour, claiming the adults in his home shaved his head and broke his arm.
Police raided the squalid residence in the Suan Luang district on May 26, where three suspects were caught with six minors believed to be exploitation victims.
The trio were identified as Burmese suspects Soe Soe, Nee Nee Win and Oo Ze.
They were hauled to the local police station to face charges of human trafficking, child exploitation and begging.
Six children, including those from ethnic Burmese minorities, were also rescued from the house.
Neighbours said they were relieved as the alleged traffickers were reportedly often heard screaming in their household.
One grandmother said: 'I'm so happy. I really want them to be taken away already. It's been like this for a long time.
'When the children first arrived, they looked lively, but later on they were sweating profusely and looked like they had lost weight. They also had many scars.'
Police Colonel Supachai Chaisuwann, Superintendent of the Crime Suppression Division, said the children were now under the care of relevant authorities and agencies for psychological rehabilitation and welfare protection.
He said: 'This incident is as a major cautionary tale showing the problem of human trafficking in Thai society. We all need to work together to monitor and prevent children from becoming victims of such criminal groups again.'
