A prominent member of Thailand’s Bhirombhakdi family, known for their control of Singha Beer, was dismissed from the family’s business empire due to allegations of sexual abuse. The dismissal followed several days of public controversy ignited by the allegations.
Siranudh Scott, an environmental activist from the Bhirombhakdi family, accused his elder brother of sexually abusing him during his teenage years. Scott announced these allegations in an emotional video posted on his Facebook page. He claimed that his family was aware of the abuse, citing a taped confession as proof, but took no action against it.
Scott expressed his disillusionment with his family, stating his unwillingness to be identified as a Singha heir and his desire to distance himself from a family that he felt lacked empathy for him. Scott, a marine conservationist known for his work with his group Sea You Strong in southern Thailand, is the son of a Scottish father.
Following the allegations, the family’s business conglomerate, Boonrawd Brewery Company, announced the dismissal of Sunit, Scott’s brother, from all his positions within the company. In a statement, the company expressed regret for Scott’s experiences and declared their cooperation with authorities in ongoing investigations.
The statement was given by the company’s CEO, Bhurit Bhirombhakdi, who is also a cousin of the two men. Bhurit additionally shared a letter from Sunit, in which the accused resigned from all his duties until the matter could be thoroughly investigated and resolved. Although Sunit has denied the allegations of sexual abuse, he admitted to instances of rough play between boys.
The Bhirombhakdi family, who are identified as Thailand’s fifteenth wealthiest family by Forbes, with an estimated net worth of $1.75 billion, have interests extending beyond Singha Beer. They are also engaged in food manufacturing, hotel operations, power, and property.
What led to the dismissal of a member from the Bhirombhakdi family’s business empire?
The dismissal occurred following allegations of sexual abuse made by Siranudh Scott against his elder brother, Sunit, which stirred public controversy.
Who announced the dismissal from the family’s business empire?
CEO Bhurit Bhirombhakdi, the cousin of the two men, announced the dismissal in a statement.
What are the other business interests of the Bhirombhakdi family?
Apart from Singha Beer, the family’s business interests include food manufacturing, hotels, power, and property.
