Thai Model's Death in Bahrain Sparks Family's Demand for Answers

TDT | Agencies     

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

The body of Kaikan Kaennakam, a 31-year-old Thai model, was discovered in a mortuary in Bahrain over a year after she went missing. Her family is demanding an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.

Kaikan, once a thriving model, transitioned to working in a restaurant in the Middle East after facing a decline in job opportunities. Despite the challenges, she remained devoted to supporting her family back in northeast Thailand. Keeping her loved ones informed, she frequently shared updates via social media, revealing that she had formed a relationship and moved in with her Bahraini boyfriend.

In April 2023, Kaikan's online presence abruptly ceased, causing concern among her relatives who were unable to reach her via phone. Despite exhaustive efforts to locate her, including seeking assistance from the Thai embassy in January of the following year and receiving support from the Thai community in Bahrain, Kaikan remained elusive.

Tragically, on April 18, the Thai Embassy in Bahrain conveyed devastating news to Kaikan’s family: the body of an unidentified Southeast Asian woman had been discovered in the Salmaniya Medical Complex mortuary since the previous year. A tattoo on the woman’s leg provided a crucial clue, identifying her as the missing Thai worker. The stated cause of death was acute lung and heart failure due to alcohol poisoning.

Suthida Ngernthaworn, Kaikan’s sister, harbours suspicions regarding the circumstances surrounding Kaikan’s death. She asserts that photographs of Kaikan’s body exhibit indications of bruising, prompting her concerns. Additionally, Suthida reveals that before her disappearance, Kaikan had shared images and videos on social media depicting her body adorned with marks and cuts, further fueling suspicion.

Now, the family is grappling with the arduous task of repatriating Kaikan's remains to Thailand—a costly endeavour without travel insurance.

The family's demand for a thorough investigation into Kaikan's death underscores the need for clarity and justice in this tragic case. As they mourn the loss of their loved one, they are determined to uncover the truth behind her untimely demise.