Bangkok chef arrested for raping teenage employee: Sparks workplace safety debate – Bangkok News – Thailand News, Travel & Forum

Yesterday, a 25-year-old chef at a popular Bangkok restaurant was arrested following allegations of assault and rape against a 16-year-old employee, raising serious concerns about workplace safety for young employees.

Watanyu, the cook at a restaurant in Pin Klao District, was arrested thanks to the steadfast detective work of the Metropolitan Police Bureau led by Police Chief Major General Thiti Sangsawang. The Taling Chan Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant on December 8th, which was quickly implemented.

The allegations against Watanyu are serious. He is accused of luring a minor, illegally kidnapping her from her legal guardian and then raping her. The horrific ordeal is believed to have taken place in September 2021. The alarm was only raised when the teen victim’s parents noticed her debilitating change in behavior.

It is understood Watanyu used his position as head chef to exploit the naive girl. He lured the girl to his apartment after her shift under the guise of work duties and in the safety of his home, sexually assaulted and raped her.

After the incident, the victim was reportedly dumped outside the shopping center where the restaurant is located. She was able to contact a friend and return home, where she eventually told her parents about the incident. A complaint was lodged at Bang Yi Khan Police Station, which quickly led to Watanyu’s arrest.

Although Watanyu initially denied the allegations, he eventually admitted the incident but insisted it was consensual. His trial is imminent and he is now in police custody pending the hearing.

This worrying case has sparked anger and debate about the need for increased measures to protect young people in the workplace. As the story continues to resonate in Bangkok and beyond, authorities are urging others who may have suffered a similar fate to come forward to ensure justice will prevail.

The horrific incident is a sobering reminder of the vulnerabilities young people face in the workplace and the paramount importance of strong safeguards to protect them from such abuse.

Image courtesy: Komchadluek

— May 11, 2024

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