In a shocking case of child neglect in Northern Thailand, an 8-year-old boy has been discovered living in squalor with a pack of wild dogs. The boy has reportedly lost the ability to speak and now communicates only by barking after being left in the care of the animals by his drug-using family.
Authorities discovered the boy during a raid on a dilapidated property earlier this week, where he was found with his mother and 23-year-old brother. Both adults tested positive for drugs.
Intervention and Heartbreaking Discovery
Child rights activist Paveena Hongsakul brought the case to the attention of local law enforcement after the boy’s school raised concerns. Paveena described the scene as “pitiful,” noting that the boy “didn’t speak — he just barked.”
Despite receiving a government support grant for his education, the boy had not been attending school regularly. Paveena revealed, “His mother hasn’t allowed him to go to school since he received a subsidy for free education. After getting the money, she simply kept him at home.”
Local residents observed the mother begging for money and food, and families in the vicinity forbade their children from interacting with the boy due to his mother’s conduct. Deprived of human interaction, the boy sought companionship from the dogs and began to emulate their behavior.
Charges and Future Care
On June 30, a collaborative operation by Thailand’s Education Ministry and Lap Lae police officers led to the adults being charged with drug consumption after failing urine tests. The 8-year-old boy has since been placed in the care of a local children’s home.
A representative stated, “The boy will be given a chance at a good life. We’ll follow up with him to make sure he gets everything he needs.”
This heartbreaking situation highlights the critical importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable children. What steps do you think are most crucial in the rehabilitation and future well-being of a child who has experienced such severe neglect?
