Russian dad’s Phuket heartbreak: Wife bolts, leaves him penniless

A 57-year-old Russian man, Oleg Magdeev, and his five-year-old son in Phuket have found themselves in a desperate situation after being abandoned by his Thai wife, leaving him penniless and without his belongings. The story was shared by a Thai man, Ekkawit Suratwadee, on social media in hopes of garnering assistance for Magdeev, who wishes to remain in Thailand legally to care for his son.

The Struggles of Oleg Magdeev

Magdeev initially came to Thailand to work as a shipmaster. However, he lost his job during the pandemic and relocated to Chainart, the home province of his Thai wife. During this time, he invested in a car, land, and a house, all of which were registered in his wife's name. Unfortunately, the car was repossessed due to unpaid loans, and after the couple divorced, Magdeev found himself destitute, with all valuables legally belonging to his ex-wife.

Returning to Phuket, Magdeev rented a house in the Thalang district but soon found himself unable to pay the rent. He also rented a motorcycle to take his son to school but struggled to keep up with the payments.

Seeking Help and Support

Magdeev expressed a strong desire to find work in order to support his son. He has experience driving and repairing boats up to 60 feet in length, though his boat license has expired. Despite these challenges, he is determined to earn a living legally in Thailand.

In an act of kindness, his landlady, Kanda, allowed him and his son to continue staying in her property despite the unpaid rent. Kanda also supported Magdeev's idea to raise catfish for sale, even investing in a catfish pond and purchasing fish for him to sell at the local market. She gave the proceeds to Magdeev, hoping this would help him work legally and provide for his son.

Public Reaction and Embassy Involvement

The story of Magdeev and his son has touched the hearts of many Thai netizens, who expressed their concern and offered help, with some even considering making donations. Many also criticized his ex-wife for abandoning her young son.

Magdeev has since visited the Russian Embassy in an attempt to find a solution to his predicament, though no updates have been provided on the outcome of that visit.

This heart-wrenching story highlights the challenges faced by foreigners in Thailand when left without legal or financial support, and the compassion of those willing to help during difficult times.