Deputy Interior Minister Worasit has ordered an expanded investigation after leaked chats revealed government officials linked to human trafficking networks in the Khao San area. He stressed the need to pursue the highest level of prosecution without exception and is expediting coordination with the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) to examine fraudulent documents for decisive suppression.
On 16 Oct 2026 GMT+7, Deputy Interior Minister Worasit Liangprasit disclosed the expansion of investigations following the 'Protect Blooming Rose' operation by the Department of Provincial Administration's special task force. This operation raided and dismantled a human trafficking and child labor ring on 13 Oct 2026 GMT+7, involving victims smuggled from the Mae Sot border district, using forged documents, subjected to physical abuse, and forced to sell flowers, garlands, and orange juice near tourist spots and restaurants around Khao San Road.
Worasit stated that during follow-up arrests and interrogations, crucial evidence was found in the suspects’ LINE chat application, clearly showing some government officials’ involvement in assisting and supporting this trafficking network. Certain officials reportedly warned suspects in advance about inspection dates and times in the Khao San area, allowing suspects to help children escape in time. Moreover, there was evidence of officials sending phone signal location checks (cell tower pings) of escaping victims to suspects so they could track, recapture, and forcibly re-exploit them.
"Such conduct by government officials is extremely serious and unacceptable, as it abuses official positions to facilitate and support human trafficking networks. Together with Ministers Polpee Suwanchawi and Jeset Thaiseset, I have ordered an immediate expansion of the investigation and close monitoring of this case. We are accelerating coordination with the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) and relevant agencies to verify the origin and authenticity of all identity documents. All implicated officials will be apprehended and punished to the fullest extent of the law as swiftly as possible, without any exceptions or protection for anyone," Worasit said.
Worasit also urged local administrative and law enforcement officers to intensify social order enforcement. He called on the public to cooperate by acting as vigilant observers and promptly report any sightings of children forced to sell goods, garlands, or orange juice, especially at night or any suspicious behavior. Officials should investigate immediately, and citizens are encouraged to notify authorities to collectively eradicate and halt human trafficking and child labor exploitation from Thai society.