Gang Rapes in Mahachai

July 2, 2008

By HURFOM:

Local NGOs in the Bangkok-Mon community of Mahachai in Samutsakon province have reported an increase in the number of gang rapes occurring against Burmese migrants in the area.

The latest string of attacks occurred at night, by gangs of men lurking with trucks and motorbikes in factory areas busy with migrant workers. The men, allegedly all Thai, grabbed workers as they walked home from their factory jobs.

Although local NGOs tried to bring some cases to court in Thailand, the courts have yet to respond. One organization said that they informed police regarding a recent attack, however police refused to prosecute as the victim lacked sufficient evidence.

Victims from five recent cases were interviewed by the border-based Women and Child Rights Project; most victims declined to be interviewed for fear of either further persecution by their attackers, or for fear of the stigma associated with being raped.

In their interview some victims stated they could recognize their perpetrators but remained too fearful of deportation to inform local authorities.

Written by HURFOM · Filed Under News