Thailand’s Central Investigation Bureau arrested a 23-year-old suspect on charges of human trafficking and creating child sexual abuse material involving two boys. The Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division carried out the arrest under warrants from Yasothon Provincial Court, officers said.

Police detained the man Tuesday at a petrol station in Muang district, Yasothon province. Investigators zeroed in on an account on the social media platform X that shared explicit images of minors and offered access to a paid private messaging group. That group had over 100 members, according to authorities.

Working alongside provincial social development officials, police identified the victims: boys aged 13 and 15. The suspect allegedly met them separately. He first connected online through messaging apps, then approached them at a village festival. From there, he arranged meetings where he committed offenses against them and recorded material for sale in the private group, police said.

The suspect has confessed to the charges. Officers forwarded the case to Division 3 of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division for further proceedings. The operation fell under the oversight of top Central Investigation Bureau leaders, including Pol. Lt. Gen. Nattasak Chawanasai, the bureau’s commissioner, and Pol. Gen. Thatchai Pitaneelaboot, deputy national police chief.

Authorities provided immediate assistance to the boys. Officials emphasized their commitment to dismantling online networks exploiting children. Thailand has ramped up efforts against such crimes in recent years, with specialized units targeting digital platforms where predators operate.

The arrest highlights the dangers of social media for minors. Police urged parents to monitor children’s online activity and report suspicious accounts. Yasothon province, in northeastern Thailand, rarely sees high-profile trafficking cases, making this operation notable for local authorities.

Investigators continue to probe the private group’s members. No additional arrests have been announced. The case draws attention amid Thailand’s push to strengthen laws on child protection and digital crimes.