Convicted Drug Dealer offered parol for boxing victory

When convicted Thai drugs dealer Samson Sor Siriporn enters the ring at the notorious “Bangkok Hilton” prison next month, her freedom as well as a world title will be on the line.

Jailed seven years ago for selling “ya ba” (crazy drug) methamphetamine pills, the 24-year-old prison pugilist could be released on parole three years early as a reward for winning the WBC light-flyweight title.

Siriporn, who will face Japan’s Ayaka Miyano, says she took up boxing two years ago to forget her criminal past. She dreams of winning her freedom and opening a small shop in her home province of Lop Buri.

“I regret what I did and the pain I caused for my family, and I want to have a normal life again,” she told Reuters, her face dripping with sweat after a fierce sparring session at the Women’s Correctional Institute in Patham Thani, north of Bangkok.

“When I heard I may have a chance at freedom it made me even more determined to win this fight.”

Siriporn’s boxing prowess has earned her special treatment behind bars. While other inmates stitch garments and sacks in the sweltering heat, Siriporn spars with her coach or lifts weights in the prison courtyard.

Her diet is high in protein, carbohydrates and essential nutrients, and she sleeps in a spacious room with a handful of other privileged inmates.

(BoT)

By Sun Tzu on 14-03-2007