4-6-2024 (BANGKOK) The parents of an eight-year-old boy, known as Nong Nice, who they have asserted to be the reincarnated son of Buddha, have been instructed by authorities to stop exploiting their child for financial gain. Apinya Chompumas, the director-general of the Department of Children and Youth, addressed the case following a meeting with the parents at the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. The parents had sought assistance to defend their family against allegations of operating a cult.
Although the parents had intended to meet with Minister Varawut Silpa-archa, he was engaged in a cabinet meeting and delegated Mrs. Apinya to engage with them instead. During the meeting, Mrs. Apinya emphasized the importance of prioritizing the rights and well-being of the child, and the parents assured her that they would take good care of their son.
The parents had sought assistance after ministry officials visited their residence in Surat Thani province to evaluate the family’s mental health. The parents had garnered attention by making claims that their son possessed telepathic abilities capable of connecting people’s minds.
Mrs. Apinya noted that the meeting proceeded in a relaxed atmosphere, with both the parents and the eight-year-old boy appearing normal. Prior to the meeting, the parents had expressed their intention to provide an interview to refute allegations of running a cult. However, following the meeting, the family promptly departed from the ministry, and only Mrs. Apinya was available to address the reporters.
Minister Varawut, in a separate statement, affirmed that the ministry’s actions were guided by the best interests of the child.
Last month, a group of prominent critics filed a complaint against Nong Nice and others involved in managing the boy’s “mind connection” office and website. The group accused them of disseminating false information to the public, potentially violating the Computer Crime Act, Donation Solicitation Act, and Child Welfare Protection Act.
It has been reported that Nong Nice conducted classes and forums, employing meditation techniques to communicate with followers, and even claimed to possess telepathic communication with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
