An 11-year-old boy, Pangpond, who gained attention in August after a viral video showed him smoking an e-cigarette, was found chained to a chair near Pattaya Beach . The incident occurred close to a police station, where concerned bystanders alerted authorities. Pangpond, known for running away from home, was discovered chained to a camping chair while his parents were renting mats to tourists. Pattaya police and officials from the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security quickly arrived at the scene and took him to the Pattaya police station for further investigation.
Pangpond’s father, Sakda (surname withheld), confessed to chaining his son out of fear that he would run away again. Sakda, who tested positive for methamphetamine, claimed his actions were driven by concern for his family and the public, rather than anger.
Following the incident, the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security transferred Pangpond to the Child and Family Welfare Center in Chonburi for assessment and rehabilitation. Meanwhile, Sakda is set to undergo drug rehabilitation. The family may be allowed to regain custody if Pangpond’s condition improves and no further issues arise.
A tourist who witnessed the event expressed shock at the boy’s treatment and called for more humane solutions. Authorities emphasized that Pangpond’s safety is their top priority, and they are addressing the underlying issues within the family.
