Family of Raped 16-Year-Old Autistic Girl Angry Over Police Inaction
The family of a 16-year-old autistic girl in Surin Province is living in a state of fear and frustration. Five months after she was brutally sexually assaulted in her own home by a roof repairman, the suspect remains free, often passing by their residence as if nothing happened. Their anger is directed at the investigation officers at the Muang Leen Police Station, whom they accuse of profound inaction despite overwhelming medical evidence.
The ordeal began on the afternoon of April 20, 2015. The girl, identified by the pseudonym ‘Kanyarat,’ was left at home while her usual caregiver, 61-year-old Ms. Somjai, went grocery shopping. Her aunt, Ms. Suchada (33), was at work, having hired 48-year-old Mr. Pramote to repair the family’s roof. This left Kanyarat alone with the workman.
The situation turned horrific when Ms. Suchada returned home around 5:00 PM. She discovered her niece sitting near the kitchen. The girl’s trousers were off, her bra was pulled up, and semen was visible on her body. The family acted immediately. The next morning, on April 21, they took Kanyarat to file an official complaint at the Muang Ling Police Station and then to the hospital for a forensic examination.
Doctors confirmed the sexual assault and documented the presence of semen, providing what should have been a clear path to justice. The medical report was sent to the police in April. However, nearly five months later, the investigation has stalled completely.
The family’s frustration has only grown with time. They report that the local police station was empty when they first went to report the crime, forcing them to wait an extended period before an officer finally arrived. The explanation they received was a blame on frequent illness among the staff.
Now, the primary source of their daily terror is the sight of the alleged attacker, Mr. Pramote, who continues to live nearby. He nonchalantly walks past their home, a constant reminder of the trauma and a silent threat that leaves the family feeling unsafe and abandoned by the system meant to protect them.
Seeking answers, family members and reporters recently returned to the Muang Ling Police Station. Once again, they found the station empty. After a long wait, a single officer arrived. When they inquired about the lead investigator, they were told the officer was absent, again due to illness.
Confronted about the lack of progress despite solid evidence and a known suspect, police could only reiterate that the investigation was hampered by the lead investigator’s health issues. The station has since offered promises to expedite the case, stating that all sides will be treated fairly and requesting the family to report any further threats immediately.
For Kanyarat’s family, these promises ring hollow after five months of fear and inaction. They are left with a simple, desperate plea to officials: to do their job, arrest the suspect, and finally deliver the justice their vulnerable daughter deserves.
