Tragic Discovery: Missing Thai Teen Found Dead After Week-Long Search
In a heartbreaking turn of events, a 17-year-old girl from Thailand, who had been missing for nearly a week, has been discovered deceased. The body of Naphatsorn “Namtan” Plerphukiao was located in the Chao Phraya River on May 3, near a hotel pier in the Khlong San district of Bangkok. Initial reports indicated that authorities struggled to identify her at the time of the discovery.
The case gained significant media attention on May 9, following a desperate plea from Namtan’s father, who traveled approximately 600 kilometers from Udon Thani province to Bangkok on May 7. He sought assistance from the press to help locate his daughter, who had been missing since May 1.
Details of the Disappearance
The timeline surrounding Namtan’s disappearance remains murky as investigations continue. According to various Thai media outlets, including tnews.co.th, Namtan was last seen leaving her dormitory in the Rangsit area of Pathum Thani province around midnight on May 1. She was reportedly seen getting into an orange taxi booked via a mobile app, but communication with her ceased shortly thereafter.
Witnesses indicated that she was en route to the Rama 3 area of Bangkok, where she had planned to book another ride to Pattaya Walking Street. However, the second ride was canceled midway, leaving uncertainty about her whereabouts after that point. Ultimately, her body was found in the river, raising questions about the circumstances leading to her tragic end.
Father’s Account and Concerns
On May 10, Namtan’s father recounted his last conversation with her, which took place on March 30. He described her as being in good spirits, particularly excited about an upcoming college internship in Bangkok. He expressed confusion over her decision to travel alone without any personal belongings, as she only carried her mobile phone and left behind her identification and other valuables.
The father also noted that Namtan was not known to have a boyfriend and was generally reserved, making her sudden disappearance even more perplexing. He identified her body based on her clothing and voiced suspicions that foul play may have been involved in her death.
Financial Anomalies and Ongoing Investigation
Adding to the mystery, a Facebook post from a relative on May 9 revealed that a sum of money had appeared in Namtan’s bank account after her disappearance. This has prompted inquiries to the bank regarding the source of these funds, although responses are expected to take several days.
The family is also seeking any available surveillance footage that might provide insight into Namtan’s final moments, particularly footage of her entering the taxi that transported her to the location where her body was later found.
As the investigation unfolds, the community remains in shock over the loss of a young life, and authorities are working diligently to uncover the truth behind this tragic incident.