A harrowing incident in Nonthaburi province, Thailand, has left the community in shock as Thai police charged a couple, 31-year-old Harnnarong Praiphanom and 25-year-old Marisa Thong-iam, with concealing the body of a toddler in a refrigerator, according to Thaiger.
The tragic event unfolded amid disturbing circumstances, raising questions about the welfare of the child and the responsibilities of those entrusted with their care.
Background of the Couple
Harnnarong and Marisa found themselves entrusted with the care of a two-year-old child whose parents, friends of Harnnarong, struggled with drug addiction.
The couple’s role as caretakers took a dark turn when they failed to report the child’s death to the police, as disclosed by the Bangkok Post.
Claimed Cause of Death
According to the couple, the toddler succumbed to choking on sticky rice. The claim received confirmation through autopsy results on January 7.
However, skepticism arose as the boy’s aunt expressed doubt about the findings. The police, too, noted multiple bruises on the child’s arms and legs, casting a shadow over the initial narrative.
Marisa recounted the distressing events of January 2 when she discovered ants crawling into the child’s eyes and observed his hands and mouth filled with sticky rice.
In fear and uncertainty, the couple decided to place the child in a bag upon Harnnarong’s return home. Subsequently, the toddler’s body found its way into the refrigerator, marking a tragic attempt to conceal the distressing incident.
Unveiling the Tragedy
The shocking revelation came to light when Harnnarong’s grandmother, residing in the same house, alerted the police to a foul smell emanating from the premises.
On January 6, law enforcement discovered the lifeless body of the toddler in the refrigerator, unraveling a distressing tale of neglect and attempted concealment.
While the claimed cause of death was choking on sticky rice, the boy’s aunt and the police questioned the autopsy results, highlighting numerous bruises on the child’s body.
The discrepancy between the initial explanation and the visible signs of harm adds complexity to an already tragic narrative.
Legal Consequences
The couple now faces legal repercussions for their failure to report the child’s death and the subsequent attempt to conceal the body.