On Thursday, 24 August 2017, Thai national Ms Paweena Dumdee died at The Canberra Hospital. The cause of death was determined to be a brain haemorrhage, which was likely to have been caused by drug use.
Ms Dumdee’s death was not reported to Police at the time.
During 2018, investigations into human trafficking offences indicated that Ms Dumdee may have been a victim of exploitation by traffickers or the operators of Chok Dee Massage in Fyshwick, where she worked.
The ACT Coroner is now seeking information about Ms Dumdee, her activities, her health during her time in Australia, and her place of employment.
ACT Policing is conducting the investigation for the Coroner and is particularly seeking:
- Ms Dumdee’s family members, some of whom are likely still to be in Sydney.
- Other people who worked at Chok Dee Massage in 2017.
- Anyone with any information about Ms Dumdee during her time in Australia.
- Anyone with information about drugs suspected of being supplied to workers at Chok Dee Massage
- The identity of anyone involved in the events leading up to Ms Dumdee’s death.
Police are urging anyone who can provide any information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the . Please quote reference 6295583. Information can be provided anonymously.
