27/05/2023
INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATION RESCUES FILIPINA OFW FROM HORRIFIC ORDEAL: PNP AND THAI POLICE ARREST ABUSIVE EMPLOYER
In a remarkable display of international cooperation, the Philippine National Police joined forces with the Royal Thai Police on a successful rescue operation resulting in the arrest of Mr. Ibrahim Hashim Al-ami, an Iraqi national, in connection with the r**e and forced abortion of a Filipina Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW).
The operation, which took place on March 22, 2023, in Pattaya, Thailand, was carried out with the invaluable assistance of personnel from the Office of the Police Attaché Thailand and the Philippine Embassy in Bangkok.
The Foreign Affairs Division of the RTP received a request from the Philippine Embassy in Bangkok on March 19, 2023, to locate and ensure the well-being of a distressed OFW, whose identity remains confidential. Responding swiftly, the RTP sought the assistance of Pol. Maj. Gen. Khemmarin Hassiri, the Commander and Head of the Foreign Affairs Division of INTERPOL NCB Bangkok, RTP.
Following close collaboration, the Foreign Affairs Division of the RTP, in coordination with the Pattaya City Police Station, developed plans to locate and rescue the victim. A search warrant was obtained from the court, enabling a search of the suspect's property and facilitating a potential arrest.
On March 23, 2023, the joint efforts of the RTP officers, OPA Thailand, and Philippine Embassy personnel culminated in the successful rescue of the victim, whose name is withheld for her protection. The suspect, Mr. Al-ami, and his wife were apprehended and subsequently taken into custody at the Pattaya City Police Station for further investigation.
During the rescue operation, a Social Welfare Officer was present to support the victim, providing a safe space for her to recount the harrowing details of the r**e incident and forced abortion. Later, the victim underwent a thorough medical examination at Banglamung Hospital, where she was prescribed antibiotics for her forced abortion condition. Further medical and psychological evaluations were conducted on March 29, 2023, and the victim was expected to attend the court hearing for the r**e case filed against her employer in Pattaya.
Expressing his appreciation for the successful operation, PNP Chief PGen Benjamin Acorda Jr. stated, "This remarkable rescue operation demonstrates the unwavering commitment of our law enforcement agencies in protecting the rights and welfare of our citizens, particularly our overseas Filipino workers. We are grateful for the excellent coordination and collaboration between the Royal Thai Police and the Office of the Police Attaché, under the supervision of the Philippine Embassy in Bangkok. This joint effort sends a clear message that we will not tolerate any form of abuse against our fellow Filipinos, wherever they may be."
The successful rescue operation serves as a testament to the enduring partnership between the Philippines and Thailand in combating transnational crimes and terrorism in the region. The authorities involved in this operation have exemplified their dedication to ensuring the safety and security of their citizens, while simultaneously holding those who violate their rights accountable.
The Philippine National Police and its international counterparts remain resolute in their commitment to protect and support overseas Filipino workers, ensuring their well-being and upholding justice in the face of any adversity they may encounter abroad.
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