Pattaya residents were urged not to give money to beggars, saying the seemingly charitable act only contributes to human trafficking, child abuse and more beggars.
Mayuree Damnernpol, director of the Chonburi Protection Center for the Destitute, spoke to residents of the Soi Khopai Community Feb. 28, along with Pattaya Social Development Director Teeraporn Srichan
Instead of giving money, people should call the Department of Social Development and Welfare at hotline 1300 or the police, Mayuree said.
In addition, street performers and buskers often are vagrants or victims of human trafficking. Authorities should be alerted and they will check if the performer is registered to perform publicly. If not, they will be taken to the destitute center or other shelters pending investigation.
Mayuree said anyone spotted dropping off beggars or performers should be reported, as they may be involved with human trafficking. Penalties for such are three years in prison and fines of up to 50,000 baht.
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