Human Trafficking Ring in Georgia Exposes Dark Reality of Surrogacy
Thailand and Georgia Investigate Trafficking Ring
Thailand and Georgia have announced investigations into a human trafficking ring that allegedly forces Thai women to become surrogate mothers in the South Caucasus country. The investigation follows the repatriation of three Thai women who were found to be victims of the ring.
Details of the Trafficking Ring
According to Surapan Thaiprasert, commander of the foreign affairs division of the Royal Thai Police, Thai authorities are investigating the ring. The alleged victims reported responding to social media advertisements offering surrogate motherhood opportunities, promising a monthly salary of 25,000 baht (approximately $742.94).
Upon agreeing to the opportunity, the women were taken to Georgia, via Dubai and Armenia, where they were escorted to a house by two Chinese nationals. They were told there were no contracts or parents, and instead, their eggs were being harvested through a machine after being injected with treatment and anesthetized.
Fear and Resistance
The women reported feeling scared and tried to contact their families back home after discovering the true nature of the operation. They also feigned illness to avoid being subjected to the egg harvesting process.
Captors’ Threats
The women claimed their passports were taken, and they were told that if they returned to Thailand, they would risk arrest. The captors aimed to keep the women captive and extract their eggs without their consent.
Pavena Hongsakul Foundation’s Involvement
The Pavena Hongsakul Foundation for Children and Women, a Thai-based NGO, helped facilitate the return of the three women and estimates that around 100 more trafficked women remain in Georgia.
Conclusion
This disturbing case highlights the dark side of surrogacy and the exploitation of vulnerable women. Thailand and Georgia must work together to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure the safe return of the remaining victims. It is essential to raise awareness about the risks of surrogacy and protect the rights of women who seek to become surrogate mothers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is responsible for the human trafficking ring in Georgia?
The identity of the perpetrators has not been disclosed. - How many Thai women are believed to be still trapped in Georgia?
Approximately 100, according to the Pavena Hongsakul Foundation. - What is the investigation process in Thailand and Georgia?
Thai authorities are investigating the case, and Georgia’s interior ministry has repatriated three Thai women and questioned four foreign nationals. - How did the alleged victims respond to the situation?
They feigned illness to avoid being subjected to the egg harvesting process and tried to contact their families back home.