Crime
Anti-Human trafficking Police Probe Adoption Service Offered on Facebook
Police reported newborns resulting from unwanted pregnancies are up for sale on Facebook pages. According to police, some Facebook pages advertised babies to attract people wanting to “adopt” them.
BANGKOK – Thailand’s anti-human trafficking police have ordered an investigate a Facebook page offering adoption service. Offering to broker adoption for parents who cannot afford to raise their baby.
The Facebook page has since been shut down and anti-human trafficking police are investigating. Newborns resulting from unwanted pregnancies were posted on Facebook pages. Facebook pages advertised babies to attract people wanting to “adopt” them.
“This kind of trade is strictly prohibited as it violates anti-human trafficking and child protection laws.” Social Development and Human Security Minister Chuti Krairiksh said.
The offense is punishable by up to six months in jail and/or a fine of up to 60,000 baht. Adoption requires a strict background check of prospective parents, Mr Chuti said.
The minister explained that parents of a baby can give their baby up for adoption, but there is a legal process.
He added that any single parent who has a problem raising his/her baby can call the ministry’s hotline 1300. The callers can get around the clock for advice, and the ministry is more than happy to provide help.
A social worker, meanwhile, said in a Facebook post that a baby adoption service advertised on social media is a violation of the Child Protection Act.
Source: Thai PBS
