Bangkok Teacher Accused of Extorting Student for Confiscated Phone

A school in Bangkok is under scrutiny after a teacher allegedly confiscated a student's mobile phone and demanded 10,000 baht for its return. The incident, which occurred on April 20 but was publicized on May 14 via social media, involves a student who moved from Narathiwat to Bangkok for studies. After the student used his prohibited phone in class, the teacher seized it. When the student's uncle attempted to retrieve it, the teacher rejected a 1,500 baht offer and later demanded 10,000 baht, claiming parents must pay for confiscated items. The family, viewing this as extortion, reported the matter to police and withdrew the student from the school. Despite eight discussions, the teacher refused to return the device until the school director intervened following online backlash. The Ministry of Education has acknowledged the case, promising fairness. The identities of the school, teacher, and student remain undisclosed. Public criticism has focused on whether the confiscation was disciplinary or financially motivated, highlighting concerns over educator conduct and student rights in Thai schools.