Norwegian suspect in Thai child trafficking case dead, police say

A Norwegian national, identified pseudonymously as 'Mr Kim,' who was allegedly financing a Thai boxing camp used for trafficking underage boys for sex, has died before authorities could apprehend him. Police confirmed his death was due to natural causes, specifically an underlying medical condition, which occurred earlier in 2026 before the investigation reached its conclusion.

Authorities raided the camp in Rayong province, southeast of Bangkok, on July 7. On the same day, they arrested the camp's 28-year-old manager at a different location. This manager reportedly confessed to trafficking minors for sexual exploitation and procuring boys for sexual services. The investigation is ongoing, with police stating their intent to identify additional suspects connected to the criminal operation.

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However, police will continue the investigation and identify additional suspects involved in this crime.

According to a Thai police source speaking to AFP on July 16, the deceased Norwegian was reportedly 80 years old. Police statements from July 15 indicated that 'Mr Kim' allegedly employed a female secretary to arrange sexual services, including oral sex, for boys from disadvantaged backgrounds. In return, he is said to have covered their living expenses and provided other amenities. Under Thai law, convictions for human trafficking carry sentences of up to 15 years per offense, with significantly harsher penalties for crimes involving minors.

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In exchange, Kim allegedly paid for their living expenses and other amenities.