BANGKOK — More than 50 officers from multiple agencies raided an illegally operating entertainment venue in Soi Pracha Uthit 11, Huai Khwang District, Bangkok at 12:30 a.m. on August 16. The establishment was popular among foreign tourists, particularly Chinese nationals.
Authorities found 328 patrons inside – 122 Thais and 206 foreigners – partying when the raid began. Officers immediately shut down all activities. While the main hall showed no illegal substances, drugs were discovered on 2 Vietnamese tourists.
In the mezzanine level’s four VIP rooms, officers made significant drug seizures: 17 tourists (10 Chinese men, 6 Chinese women, 1 Vietnamese) with methamphetamine found on 2 people, ketamine on 2 others, plus 4 packets of “happy water” near a glass cabinet.
When questioned, no one claimed ownership of the drugs. Forensic teams collected DNA evidence from the tourists.
Police Colonel Prasopchok Aiampinij, Huai Khwang Police Station Chief, said the raid followed reports of an illegally operating venue popular with tourists, especially Chinese nationals. Intelligence suggested it might be a drug distribution hub.
The joint operation included Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, Child and Women Welfare Division, Immigration Police, and the Office of Prevention and Suppression of Narcotics. Immigration authorities will investigate the foreigners’ entry and exit records.
Investigators discovered the venue operated without proper licenses for entertainment services or alcohol sales. The manager was arrested and charged, with authorities recommending a 5-year closure order.
Police urged citizens to report locations where large groups of foreigners gather, enabling authorities to investigate and prevent potential criminal activities.
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