7-1-2024 (BANGKOK) The harrowing child sexual abuse case involving a football coach and team sponsor in Udon Thani province has taken a darker turn, with the number of boys allegedly raped increasing to nine, according to information revealed in a meeting between officials and Pavena Hongsakula, Chair of the Pavena Foundation for Women and Children, held in Udon Thani on Saturday.
During the meeting, authorities confirmed that the parents of an additional boy had filed a complaint similar to those lodged by seven football teammates from a primary school in Kumphawapi district. The victims, all aged between 10-13, have faced traumatic experiences at the hands of their football coach and sponsor.
The meeting highlighted that apart from the eight previously identified victims, police have identified another underage boy through a video clip and are currently questioning him.
Pavena Hongsakula stated that educational authorities would implement measures to prevent further abuse and safeguard the well-being of children. Additionally, the Justice Ministry pledged compensation of 55,000 baht to each victim.
Thee Pawangkanan, Deputy Secretary-General of the Basic Education Commission, revealed that a female teacher who initially reported the abuse to the foundation had been threatened and subsequently transferred for her safety.
Parents and children affected by the case expressed concern as the two suspects, temporarily released, attempted to contact the children who had filed complaints against them using chat apps.
The shocking case unfolded when a fourth-grader met a woman teacher to return his football jersey, revealing that he had been sexually abused. Subsequent complaints from more parents and boys brought the extent of the abuse to light.
The accused individuals, a 43-year-old boys’ football team coach and a 64-year-old retired major, were arrested on Dec 14 and confessed to the sexual abuse after police discovered numerous video clips depicting the heinous acts. The coach and sponsor allegedly lured young players to their residences before subjecting them to sexual abuse. The foundation managed to rescue two 10-year-old team members from their clutches.
