UPDATE: The FCO has confirmed the arrest of a British national in Bangkok on 18 May. His name is Hok Kuen Chow.
A man, reported to be a British national of Taiwanese origin, has been arrested in Bangkok on suspicion of trading in dead babies.
According to AFP, the infants, which were found in luggage, had been roasted and covered in gold. They were destined for Taiwan.
Thai Police discovered the sickening haul, which was intended to be used in a black magic ritual, after a tip-off.
AFP reported that a 28-year-old man admitted to buying the foetuses for 200,000 baht ($6,500). He said he intended to sell them online for a large profit to disturbed individuals.
According to Colonel Wiwat Kamchamnan of the Bangkok police, the man said “he planned to sell the foetuses to clients who believe they will make them lucky and rich".
If found guilty, the accused could face up to a year in prison as well as a stiff fine.
In Thailand, the ritual of removing dead babies from the womb through surgery is known as “Kuman Thong”. The babies are then dry roasted and covered with gold leaf and kept in homes as a good luck charm.
The British Foreign and Commonwealth office told the Huffington Post UK that they are currently investigating the reports, but are not able to confirm the arrested man's name or nationality.
