PATTAYA – Locals and tourists in Pattaya have raised serious concerns over the alleged exploitation of children by foreign nationals on the city’s famous Walking Street. The issue came to light when several individuals were observed using young children, reportedly between one and seven years old, to sell roses to tourists for 100 baht each. Tourists have expressed discomfort with the aggressive sales tactics, especially if they refused to make a purchase.

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Local business operators argue that this practice is severely damaging Pattaya’s reputation as a world-class tourist destination. They emphasize the inappropriateness of very young children being active on the streets during the late hours of the night, particularly between 3 a.m. and 4 a.m., when nightlife venues close and intoxicated tourists may be more susceptible to high-pressure sales approaches. The situation has sparked calls for immediate and decisive action from authorities.

Pattaya Walking Street Horror: Foreigners Force Children to Sell Flowers at Night

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Despite periodic police interventions, residents and business owners claim that these groups continue to operate, suggesting that enforcement efforts have been inconsistent and insufficient. They note that while arrests are occasionally made, sustained action seems to occur only when the issue receives media attention. There is growing demand for systematic and strong enforcement to address what many see as an ongoing form of child exploitation.

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The Pattaya business community is urging local officials to implement more effective measures to protect the city’s image and ensure the well-being of children. They believe that consistent and thorough operations, rather than sporadic checks, are necessary to ensure that tourists feel safe and welcome rather than harassed. Authorities have pledged to investigate the matter further, but residents and stakeholders insist that more robust and sustained action is needed to eradicate these practices and safeguard Pattaya’s standing as a leading international destination.

-Thailand News (TN)