Authorities in Thailand have arrested an 18-year-old modeling agent in connection with the death of 22-year-old Airada Potaram, who died while providing escort services to a Chinese client. The suspect, identified as Panita “Alin,” is accused of arranging the meeting between Airada and a Chinese national, Wu Douying. The case has raised concerns about human trafficking and forced drug use within escort networks.
Prior to her death, Airada had sent messages to her agent expressing hesitation about using drugs but was allegedly advised to consume “a little” as per the client’s request. On February 17, police apprehended and questioned Alin, who reportedly played a key role in coordinating escort services. She has been charged with facilitating prostitution, and authorities are considering additional charges related to human trafficking pending further investigation.
During a brief interaction with reporters while being escorted from an interrogation room, Alin claimed that this was Airada’s first escort job. When questioned about the victim’s drug history, she stated that she had no knowledge of any prior use.
Investigators revealed that Alin admitted to arranging escort services for multiple clients and allegedly managed a vast modeling agency network with over 1,000 women. According to sources, she acted as an intermediary, collecting payments from clients before distributing earnings to the escorts. Her reputation within the industry reportedly stemmed from her reliability in ensuring payment, even if clients failed to settle their dues.
Airada’s family has disputed any suggestion that she had voluntarily consumed drugs. Her mother and sister, supported by testimonies from close friends, insist that she had no history of drug use. They have also criticized the initial police response, alleging that officers recommended accepting compensation instead of pressing charges and suggested that prosecuting the case would be challenging due to the presence of drugs.
Police Colonel Jarin Jintapala of Chokchai Police Station has denied any mishandling of the investigation. He stated that immigration officials were promptly alerted to prevent Wu Douying from leaving the country. Authorities are also scrutinizing Wu’s travel history, as records indicate he has entered Thailand multiple times under the alias “Jessada.”
Forensic expert Dr. Weerasak Charasicharoen from Srinakharinwirot University highlighted the dangers of the substances found at the scene, which included ketamine and a drug cocktail known as “happy water.” The latter, popular among certain Chinese partygoers, contains a mix of depressants and stimulants, including ingredients commonly associated with date rape drugs. When combined with alcohol, the mixture can cause circulatory failure, a factor being examined in Airada’s death.
As the investigation continues, authorities await toxicology results to determine the presence of drugs in Airada’s system. Investigators are exploring whether she may have been coerced into consuming the substances, leading to a fatal reaction. The case remains under active review, with potential legal actions against all parties involved.
Officials and law enforcement representatives have reiterated their commitment to a thorough investigation. The outcome of the forensic tests and legal proceedings is expected to shed further light on the circumstances surrounding Airada’s death.
