Authorities have apprehended a 38-year-old man, identified as Saran and also known by the moniker “Yod The Kids,” in connection with an alleged child prostitution network. The arrest, which took place on September 5, stems from an investigation into the online recruitment of individuals under the age of 18 for paid sexual services. A warrant for his arrest was issued by the Phra Khanong Criminal Court on August 27.
Allegations and Charges
Saran faces multiple serious charges, including human trafficking, procuring or inducing individuals into prostitution, facilitating or protecting another person’s prostitution, receiving benefits from prostitution, and the unlawful exploitation of a minor aged between 15 and 17. These charges are the result of a detailed investigation conducted by Division 1 of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division, which focused on the online exploitation of minors.
Investigation Uncovers Online Network
Investigators reportedly discovered a Line account operating under the name “Yod The Kids.” This account is alleged to have been instrumental in arranging sexual encounters involving girls under 18. A chilling message found on the account stated, “I will never die from the prostitution business,” underscoring the alleged perpetrator’s perceived impunity. Law enforcement officers infiltrated the online group as part of their investigative efforts.
According to the investigation, Saran allegedly lured underage girls through social media platforms and by approaching young people in his vicinity. The alleged modus operandi involved initially inquiring about interest in paid work. Once a potential victim expressed interest, Saran would purportedly disclose that the work entailed selling sexual services, before negotiating payment and terms. Subsequently, information pertaining to these girls, including photographs, prices, and conditions, was allegedly advertised in private online groups. Investigators noted that some advertisements explicitly identified individuals as being under 18.
Further evidence uncovered by investigators included photographs of girls holding signs bearing the “Yod The Kids” name. These were allegedly used as a visual confirmation of their connection to Saran’s operation.
Referral Fees and Pricing Structure
The investigation revealed a distinct financial arrangement where Saran allegedly charged customers a separate referral fee, rather than taking a direct cut from the service price quoted by the girls. The reported referral fees were structured as follows:
- 500 baht for a single introduction.
- 1,000 baht for three introductions.
- 1,500 baht for unlimited introductions and occasions.
The girls themselves were reportedly advertised for encounters at prices ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 baht. Police stated that these advertisements were frequently posted across various social media platforms, connecting multiple underage girls to the alleged network.
Case of a 17-Year-Old Victim
A key aspect of the investigation involved the case of a 17-year-old girl, whom police allege Saran introduced into prostitution and facilitated connections with customers. Following this, investigators compiled evidence and secured the arrest warrant for Saran.
Seized Evidence
The evidence collected during the investigation and at the time of arrest is substantial. It includes the “Yod The Kids” social media account, numerous photographs, records of conversations allegedly arranging sexual services, documentation related to referral payments, bank account details, and a mobile phone.
Confession and Prior Offenses
During initial questioning, police reported that Saran confessed to having a sexual interest in minors and intentionally targeting younger victims. He also admitted to having previously introduced approximately 50 girls to clients. He has since been transferred to Division 1 of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division for further legal processing.
This is not Saran’s first encounter with law enforcement. In January 2022, he was arrested by the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division as part of an operation targeting a child sexual abuse material distribution network. At that time, a significant amount of child sexual abuse material was found on his computer. Saran reportedly admitted to receiving a 500 baht commission for each instance he forwarded such material. He was subsequently sentenced by a court to 12 months in prison for importing and distributing obscene computer data for commercial purposes. However, this prison sentence was suspended for two years.
Broader Context of Child Exploitation
The arrest highlights ongoing concerns regarding child exploitation, particularly online. Reports indicate that a significant number of children face online sexual abuse, with organizations like UNICEF reporting that one in five children experience such exploitation. The case also brings to light the persistent challenges in combating human trafficking and prostitution networks that prey on vulnerable youth.
