On November 5, 2024, officials in Nang Rong District, Buriram Province, responded to a case involving a mother who constructed a cell in her home to confine her 42-year-old son, whose aggressive behavior is reportedly linked to long-term drug addiction and gambling. After numerous failed rehabilitation attempts, the mother said she took drastic measures to protect herself and her community, fearing for her safety and property.
The situation has drawn significant attention from local authorities. Mr. Woraphon Hirunratana, the prosecutor of Nang Rong District, led a team of officials, including representatives from the district’s public health and police departments, to inspect the scene at Ban Nong Muang in Thanon Hak Subdistrict. According to officials, the mother had hired a technician to install bars in her house, creating a makeshift cage. Although the installation raised legal questions, authorities noted that no one was currently being detained, so it did not constitute an immediate legal violation. However, the mother was cautioned not to use the cell to confine anyone in the future.
The mother disclosed her deep concerns over her son’s history of violent outbursts, which she attributed to prolonged drug abuse and a new addiction to online gambling. She said he had attempted rehabilitation at ten different facilities, only to relapse each time he returned home. His behavior escalated recently when she refused his demands for money, prompting her to take precautionary measures.
Dr. Krittaya Uwichian, Deputy Director of Medical Affairs at Nang Rong Hospital, confirmed that the son, diagnosed with psychiatric issues stemming from drug use, had been under the hospital’s care since October 23. Though his symptoms had recently stabilized, his scheduled release on November 6 was postponed after discussions with local agencies. To ensure long-term safety, officials arranged for his transfer to a psychiatric facility in Nakhon Ratchasima Province for extended treatment, expected to last at least one year.
The case underscores the challenges faced by families dealing with chronic addiction and mental health crises. Lawyer Ronnarong Kaewpetch, of the Campaign for Social Justice Foundation, warned that while the mother’s intentions were protective, any confinement could result in charges of illegal detention. Officials are coordinating to support the mother and her son, with plans to involve the local community in monitoring the situation upon his eventual return.