Thai Grandmother Urges End to Bullying After Granddaughter's Suicide

Key summary

A grandmother in Buriram has called for an end to bullying following the suicide of her 15-year-old granddaughter. The teenager died at home on Saturday after reportedly being mocked by classmates over her weight, which exceeded 80 kilogrammes, and her curly hair. Police received a report of the death around 11:00 on October 24. An initial examination found no obvious signs of physical assault. The grandmother stated the alleged bullying had continued for two to three months and that she feared it affected her granddaughter's mental health. The teenager lived with her father and eight-year-old brother in Satuek district; her parents had separated years earlier. Officials released the body to relatives after required procedures, noting the family did not object to the initial handling of the case. The grandmother described the girl as a diligent student and appealed for empathy, stating people cannot choose their appearance. While bullying can affect emotional well-being, officials noted the circumstances have not established that bullying was the cause of death. The Department of Mental Health hotline 1323 is available 24 hours a day, free of charge and confidentially.