Phuket agencies review trafficking cases as 1,373 people undergo screening
Authorities are verifying whether 1,373 people screened in Phuket are victims of exploitation and prostitution, while four children have been assisted in trafficking cases this year.
Authorities in Phuket are verifying whether 1,373 people identified through screening are victims of exploitation and prostitution, while 25 reports of suspected human trafficking incidents or clues have been received this year, according to information presented at a local protection network meeting.
The figures were presented at the third 2026 meeting of the Network for the Protection of Children, Women and Family Members, held on 23 September 2026 and organised by the Baan Sri Chumpaban Foundation’s Phuket branch.
For Freedom International Foundation (FFI) Thailand told the meeting that its Phuket branch had assisted four children identified as victims of human trafficking in 2026. FFI Communication and Development Associate Jariya Kaoropwongchai said six alleged perpetrators linked to those cases had been identified and were facing legal proceedings.
FFI works with the Phuket branch of the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security and local authorities on anti-trafficking campaigns, Jariya said. Its “GIRLS Without Fear” project uses school visits and community outreach to teach children to recognise warning signs, avoid exploitation and seek help, while also raising awareness of online grooming.
The foundation said its prevention programmes had reached more than 15,000 students, youth leaders and caregivers, providing training on inappropriate behaviour and recruitment tactics used by traffickers.
Historical figures presented at the meeting showed that Phuket recorded 22 human trafficking cases involving 24 victims between 2020 and 2025. The highest number was recorded in 2023, with 17 cases involving 17 victims. There were two cases in 2020 and one case each in 2022, 2024 and 2025.
The meeting also examined the rights of crime victims and issues affecting children and young people involved in the justice system. Dr Ittichot Kulrattanachot, a public prosecutor at Phuket Kwaeng Court and chairperson of the Child Protection Network, led a session on the subject.
Representatives reviewed annual human-related statistics from FFI and communicable diseases requiring surveillance from the Phuket Provincial Public Health Office. They also presented projects involving learning promotion, the Cornerstone Learning Center of Asia Center Foundation Phuket, the Phuket Child Protection Foundation’s 23rd Child Protection Mini-Marathon and the “GIRLS Without Fear” project.
The network brings together government agencies, foundations and other organisations working with children, women and families facing crises or high-risk situations. A review of its meeting records and follow-up work is scheduled for June 2027 to assess ongoing coordination and support.
