A married woman from Lamphun province has sought government protection after alleging a year-long ordeal of blackmail, threats, and intimidation by a former affair partner. The woman, accompanied by her husband, met with Thanakrit Jitareerak, an assistant to the deputy prime minister, on August 6 to request assistance.
Affair Escalates to Abuse and Blackmail
The relationship reportedly began online in February of the previous year. The woman stated that her husband was aware of the affair and had accepted the situation. Initially, the online interactions were amicable, but the situation soon took a turn as the man allegedly became increasingly controlling. According to the woman’s account, he began demanding constant updates on her daily activities and required her to send photographs throughout the day to monitor her movements.
The alleged abuse escalated significantly when the man reportedly created a fake social media profile using the woman’s identity. Through this fake account, he is accused of posting intimate images and falsely claiming that she was offering sexual services. This act alone caused considerable distress and reputational damage.
Workplace Harassment and Threats
Further compounding the situation, the woman claims the man sent intimate photos and videos to individuals at her workplace. This targeted harassment ultimately forced her to resign from her job. In a particularly distressing turn, she also alleged that he sent footage of their sexual encounters to her husband.
When the woman eventually asked the man to delete the compromising material, she claims he demanded that she travel to Chiang Mai and pay him a sum of money in exchange for the files’ destruction. She agreed to the meeting, but she alleges that the man failed to uphold his end of the agreement.
Allegations of Coercion and Detention
The situation reportedly devolved further, with the woman alleging that the man coerced her into sexual activity and subsequently detained her in Chiang Mai for three days. She was eventually allowed to return home, but the alleged harassment did not cease. He continued to demand meetings, threatening to release more intimate material if she refused.
Severe Mental Health Impact and Unsuccessful Police Report
The woman stated that this alleged pattern of abuse had continued for approximately one year, causing severe damage to her mental health. She reported developing depression and panic disorder, and tragically, she indicated that she had previously attempted to end her own life due to the immense distress.
Adding to her difficulties, the woman claims she attempted to file a report with local police, but her complaint was reportedly not accepted. Furthermore, she alleged that the suspect threatened to harm her husband if she pursued legal action, adding a layer of fear for her family’s safety.
Government Intervention and Support
Assistant to the Deputy Prime Minister Thanakrit Jitareerak expressed deep concern for the woman’s well-being. He assured her that he would coordinate with relevant government agencies to provide assistance to both her and her husband as they navigate this challenging situation.
Similar Cases and Mental Health Resources
This case echoes a similar incident reported in Bangkok in February of the previous year. In that instance, a woman described an online relationship that also became controlling. The man allegedly forced her to install CCTV cameras throughout her home, demanded she cease sexual relations with her husband, and issued threats against her and her family. That woman eventually confided in her husband, who offered forgiveness. The couple then sought help from a news agency, but no further public updates were provided on that case.
Authorities and support organizations emphasize the importance of seeking help for emotional distress. If you or someone you know is experiencing similar difficulties, resources are available:
- Samaritans of Thailand: 24-hour hotlines are available at 02 713 6791 (English) and 02 713 6793 (Thai).
- Thai Mental Health Hotline: Reachable at 1323 (Thai).
Reaching out to friends, relatives, or professional support services can provide crucial assistance during times of loneliness, stress, or depression.
