A 17-year-old Thai girl has been rescued after allegedly being forced into prostitution in Nigeria for two months by members of her family, including her mother.
The teenager, identified only as Somsakul, arrived in Thailand at Suvarnabhumi airport on Wednesday morning, with the assistance of the Thai embassy in Nigeria.
She was later assisted by the Pen Nueng Foundation and the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security to report her case with anti-trafficking police at the Central Investigation Bureau.
According to foundation founder, Chalida Phalamart, the victim reported that two months ago she was forced by her mother, grandmother and aunts to do sex work in the West African country.
Although she had resisted and escaped to her boyfriend's home, her family tracked her down, assaulted her and forced her onto a flight to Nigeria, the victim alleged. It was believed the family did it due to financial struggles to pay debts.
During her time in the country, despite her situation, she was able to secretly contact her boyfriend's family.
Later, she managed to contact the Thai embassy, after which officials were able to provide help.
According to the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, the victim requested to meet her brother, who she said was unaware of the situation and with whom she believes she will be safe.
The foundation has facilitated contact with her brother, who is a soldier stationed along the northern border, Ms Chalida said.
Defence Minister Lt Gen Adul Boonthumjaroen was informed of the case and helped coordinate the soldier's transportation to meet his sister in Bangkok.
The investigation into the case is continuing at the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division (ATPD).
