Pathum Thani: Pathum Thani police arrested the owner of a dormitory in the Rangsit area and his family on charges of extortion after a student filed a complaint that the owner of the dormitory had physically assaulted him and seized other property belonging to tenants without returning it.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Col. Yuthana Jonkhun, Commander of Pathum Thani Police, brought an arrest warrant from the Pathum Thani Provincial Court dated May 27 for extortion to arrest Pol. Col. Poolsak, 64, Ms. Patchariya, 56, and Ms. Poolchanok, 28, at a dormitory in 7 Lak Hok Subdistrict, Mueang District, Pathum Thani Province. The case escalated when more than 20 students filed complaints with the Pak Khlong Rangsit Police Station and the Consumer Protection Board, claiming that the dormitory owner had physically assaulted them and unlawfully seized their possessions.
During the arrest, there was some arguing and resistance, but eventually, the suspects surrendered to the arrest warrant. Pol. Lt. Col. Yuthana revealed that while the police requested arrest warrants for three charges, the court granted a warrant for only one charge: extortion. Despite some resistance, the arrest proceeded in accordance with the law due to the evidence presented by a victim and the court’s approval of the warrant.
The situation dates back to May 8th, when approximately 70 victims sought assistance from the Lawyers Council, alleging that the group of dormitory owners exploited them through unfair lease contracts and inappropriate behavior. One student recounted discovering the dormitory on Facebook, attracted by its appearance in photos. However, upon arrival, she faced a dubious contract process. The contract was written in pencil with sections crossed out, and she was subjected to excessive fees and a lack of privacy, leading to an uncomfortable living situation.
Another victim, a vendor, reported paying part of the deposit in installments but faced threats and verbal abuse when attempting to move out. Despite being willing to settle the outstanding deposit, her belongings were confiscated, and she was subjected to physical harm, prompting her to pursue legal action for justice.