Disgraced Khon Kaen school director nabbed for buying sex from student, 12

Authorities in Khon Kaen have launched an investigation into allegations of child sex abuse after the arrest of a school director and a retired teacher accused of purchasing sex from a 12-year-old student.

The school director has been reassigned to the local educational services office and will face disciplinary action, according to Thee Pawangkhanan, deputy secretary-general of the Office of the Basic Education Commission (Obec). The educational services office in Khon Kaen has initiated a fact-finding inquiry following orders from Education Minister Permpoon Chidchob and Obec secretary-general Thanu Wongjinda.

Pol Maj Gen Sarut Khwaengsopha, commander of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division (ATPD), confirmed the arrests on Friday. Others arrested include retired teacher Wichai Manad, 69, along with three others — two women and a man — accused of procuring young people for the sex trade. During Thursday’s operation, police also rescued three victims: the 12-year-old student and two female teenagers, both aged 17.

Authorities reported that these individuals had been coerced into the sex trade. The investigation continues as authorities aim to uncover the full extent of the abuse and ensure justice for the victims.