Case of a Thai Minor Exploited in Tokyo Sparks International Concern
A distressing case involving a 12-year-old Thai girl has raised alarms about human trafficking and child exploitation in Japan. The girl, who was reportedly forced to work at a massage parlour in central Tokyo, is now under the protection of Japanese authorities. This incident has triggered widespread concern and is currently under investigation to identify all individuals involved.
The Royal Thai Embassy in Tokyo, in collaboration with the Department of Consular Affairs, is actively monitoring the situation and providing necessary assistance. Japanese police have arrested Masayuki Hosono, 51, the owner of the massage parlour located in Tokyo’s Bunkyo Ward, on suspicion of violating labour laws and exploiting a minor.
According to Japanese media reports, the girl entered Japan in late June with her biological mother on a 15-day tourist visa. Upon arrival, the mother allegedly took her directly to the massage parlour near the Ueno district and abandoned her. The girl was reportedly forced to sleep in the kitchen and provide sexual services to customers over a period of one month.
The case came to light in mid-September when the girl approached the Tokyo Regional Immigration Services Bureau, expressing her desire to return to Thailand and attend school. She disclosed the abuse and exploitation she had endured, prompting immediate action from immigration officials and the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department’s Security Bureau.
Investigators found that the girl had been forced to serve approximately 60 male clients, generating an estimated income of 627,000 yen (132,000 baht). None of the money was given to the girl; instead, it was transferred to Mr. Hosono and then to a relative of her mother. Several Thai women were also found working at the establishment, allegedly providing sexual services.
Nikorndej Balankura, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman, said that upon notification from Japanese authorities, the Thai Embassy in Tokyo assigned consular officers to visit the girl on Sept 24 to assess her condition and confirm indicators of human trafficking under the National Referral Mechanism (NRM). It was verified that she was a victim of trafficking.
The girl is currently receiving care at a child and youth protection centre in Tokyo, including food, clothing, medical treatment, and psychological support. Japanese authorities are investigating the mother’s involvement and potential links to a broader trafficking network.
Pol Maj Gen Wittaya Sriprasertphap, Commander of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division (ATP), said Thai authorities are gathering evidence and will pursue legal action against all the parties involved. Once the Japanese investigation concludes, the girl will be repatriated, and Thai agencies will continue the investigation to ensure justice and long-term support for the victim.
Meanwhile, Thanakrit Jitareerat, secretary to Minister of Social Development and Human Security, is coordinating with Japanese authorities and plans to travel to Japan in person to monitor efforts to apprehend those involved.
Key Details of the Case
- The girl was reported to have entered Japan in late June with her biological mother on a 15-day tourist visa.
- Upon arrival, the mother allegedly took her directly to the massage parlour near the Ueno district and abandoned her.
- The girl was reportedly forced to sleep in the kitchen and provide sexual services to customers over a period of one month.
- The case came to light in mid-September when the girl approached the Tokyo Regional Immigration Services Bureau, expressing her desire to return to Thailand and attend school.
- Investigators found that the girl had been forced to serve approximately 60 male clients, generating an estimated income of 627,000 yen (132,000 baht).
- The girl is currently receiving care at a child and youth protection centre in Tokyo, including food, clothing, medical treatment, and psychological support.
Ongoing Investigations and Legal Actions
- Japanese authorities are investigating the mother’s involvement and potential links to a broader trafficking network.
- Thai authorities are gathering evidence and will pursue legal action against all the parties involved.
- Once the Japanese investigation concludes, the girl will be repatriated, and Thai agencies will continue the investigation to ensure justice and long-term support for the victim.
- Thanakrit Jitareerat, secretary to Minister of Social Development and Human Security, is coordinating with Japanese authorities and plans to travel to Japan in person to monitor efforts to apprehend those involved.