On January 14, 2025, Mr. Boonyuen, 66, and his 15-year-old daughter, Ms. Bee (a pseudonym), visited the Justice Recovery Foundation on Chaeng Watthana Road, Nonthaburi. They sought assistance from Lt. Raphatsit Phattarasirichaisin, Deputy Chairman of the Foundation, and Ms. Chadaporn Pongthongmuang, an advisor, after Ms. Bee reported being sexually assaulted by a relative, Mr. Jek, 35, at his residence in Laksi District, Bangkok. The alleged assault began in August 2024 when Ms. Bee moved in with Mr. Jek and his wife while searching for work.
Within two weeks, Mr. Jek reportedly lured her into giving him a back massage, during which he assaulted her. He warned her to stay silent, claiming no one would believe her. The assaults allegedly continued on two more occasions before Ms. Bee fled and informed her father. They filed a complaint with Thung Song Hong Metropolitan Police on November 25, 2024, but claimed the investigation stalled. Ms. Bee, in tears, explained that she had hoped to work with Mr. Jek’s wife, who was employed at a golf course.
After revealing the assault, Mr. Jek’s wife allegedly dismissed the claims and offered 50,000 baht to settle the issue, which Ms. Bee refused. She said she faced threats after rejecting the offer. Lt. Raphatsit described the case as concerning, particularly due to the trust placed in the accused. He criticized the lack of police action and vowed to assist the family in pursuing justice, ensuring Mr. Jek is held accountable.
The case raises concerns about the difficulties victims face when reporting familial abuse and the apparent lapses in law enforcement’s response.