Thai Mother Fights for Custody After Ex-Husband and His Mother Take Baby
BANGKOK, Thailand – A Thai mother, identified only as A, is battling to regain custody of her infant daughter after her ex-husband and his mother took the child from her home and physically assaulted her.
The incident, which occurred last month, has drawn widespread public attention after A sought help from Be One, a non-profit organization advocating for women’s rights. Her story was shared on social media, leading to an emotional interview on the news program Hone Krasae on April 3.
A Relationship Turned Sour
A met her ex-husband—a doctor at Hua Chiew Hospital in Bangkok—on a dating app in late 2023. Initially, she distanced herself after noticing his flirtatious behavior with multiple women on social media. However, they eventually entered a relationship, with the doctor frequently staying at her Rama VIII condo without contributing financially.
Tensions grew when A discovered his continued infidelity. His mother became involved in their disputes, expressing disdain for A due to their different social backgrounds. Even after their wedding, attended mostly by A’s family, the mother’s hostility remained unchanged.
Pregnancy and Forced Custody Agreement
When A became pregnant, the doctor ended their relationship. His mother and brothers raided A’s condo, taking his belongings. Left alone, A gave birth in February, but her ex and his mother pressured her into signing a custody contract, offering her limited visitation rights.
However, on the day A was supposed to see her daughter, her ex and his mother forcibly took the baby and cut off all communication. When A tried to prevent them from leaving, a physical altercation ensued.
Legal Battle for Her Daughter
Devastated, A turned to Be One and the authorities for help. She has since filed a formal complaint against her ex and his mother, who have reportedly moved out to evade media scrutiny.
According to Thai lawyer Monchai “Kaew” Jongkrairattnakul, A has full legal rights over her baby as she was never legally married to the doctor, who initially refused to acknowledge paternity. The ex-husband and his mother could face serious legal consequences for child abduction and domestic violence, which could jeopardize the doctor’s medical career.
A continues to plead for her child’s return, emphasizing that she only wants to be with her daughter and is willing to drop all charges if they comply.
