Families Retrieve Patients from Controversial Care Center in Kanchanaburi

On October 7, 2026, families began arriving at a private care center in the Tha Muang district of Kanchanaburi province to retrieve their relatives. This follows public reports and complaints alleging that the facility engaged in the improper treatment, confinement, and abuse of patients and elderly residents.

One mother from Chanthaburi, who had placed her 32-year-old son at the center for drug rehabilitation, expressed shock upon visiting. She reported that her son appeared disheveled, was drooling, and struggled to communicate—symptoms she claims were absent before his admission. She also noted that the facility restricted his access to phones and monitored all visitation sessions. Conversely, another family from Nakhon Pathom reported that their son, also admitted for drug-related behavioral issues, had shown improvement and denied experiencing abuse. They stated they were only removing him because of reports that the facility might be ordered to close.

For residents and visitors, this situation highlights the importance of vetting private care and rehabilitation facilities in Thailand. While some families feel the center provided services unavailable in the public sector, the allegations of mistreatment remain a serious concern. It is currently unconfirmed whether authorities have officially revoked the center's operating license or what specific legal actions will follow the ongoing investigation.