3 Thai Children Rescued After Allegedly Being Taken To Malaysia By Monk To Beg
Three Thai children have safely returned home after allegedly being trafficked to Malaysia by a Buddhist monk who promised they would become novice monks but instead allegedly forced them to beg for money.
The boys, aged five, 11 and 12, arrived back in Thailand on May 18 following coordination between Thai authorities, the Malaysian Embassy and the Paveena Hongsakul Foundation for Children and Women.
However, four other Thai children reportedly remain in Malaysia as authorities continue investigations into the disturbing case.
Parents Allegedly Tricked By Monk’s Promise
According to Thai media reports, parents first alerted the Paveena Foundation on May 9 after discovering that seven children had allegedly been taken across the border under false pretences.
The monk had reportedly convinced families that the children would be ordained as novice monks and receive religious education opportunities in Malaysia.
Instead, the children were allegedly forced onto the streets to beg for money.
The allegations sparked immediate concern among Thai child protection agencies, prompting urgent coordination with Malaysian authorities and officials responsible for Thai citizens overseas.
Young Boy Hospitalised After Rescue
Thai officials confirmed that the rescued children were received at the Songkhla border checkpoint on May 12 before being reunited with their families days later.
One five-year-old boy was reportedly suffering from fever and weakness upon his return and had to be taken to hospital for medical checks.
He later stayed temporarily at a child protection shelter in Songkhla before safely reuniting with his family.
Photos released by Thai media showed emotional scenes as parents met foundation representatives to thank them for helping bring the children home.
4 More Children Still In Malaysia
According to the foundation, four other children between the ages of 13 and 15 are still in Malaysia because authorities require them to remain temporarily to assist with court proceedings and investigations.
They are expected to return to Thailand in early June.
The foundation also said psychological rehabilitation and counselling support would be arranged for the affected children due to the trauma they may have experienced.
Case Sparks Fresh Concerns Over Child Exploitation
The incident has triggered outrage online in Thailand, particularly because the allegations involve a Buddhist monk — a figure traditionally viewed with trust and respect in Thai society.
Authorities have not yet released full details about the suspect or whether additional arrests may follow.
The case has also reignited wider concerns about child exploitation, cross-border trafficking and the abuse of religious authority in Southeast Asia.
In recent years, Thailand has faced several high-profile scandals involving temples and monks, including allegations of abuse, corruption and exploitation involving vulnerable children.