BANGKOK — In a departure from usual protocol, senior police officers at Bangkok’s Wang Thonglang Police Station will retain their positions following a recent gambling den raid, as investigators found no evidence of negligence in their duties.
Police Lieutenant General Thiti Saengswang, Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, announced on November 6 that preliminary investigations showed no oversight failures, emphasizing the importance of maintaining officer morale.
The case began after citizens reported suspicious activity at a building in Sahakarn Pramoon Soi, Wang Thonglang district. A joint operation involving the Children and Women’s Welfare Division, Metropolitan Police Investigation Division, and Wang Thonglang Police Station deployed undercover officers to investigate.
Investigators discovered the operation was run by Chinese nationals exclusively for Chinese clientele, with plans to expand to other locations in areas with significant Chinese populations.
Shortly before midnight on November 5, authorities raided the premises, arresting 21 individuals: 13 Chinese nationals, 4 Taiwanese, and 4 Thai citizens. The group comprised 17 men and 4 women.
Evidence seized included: 396 black chips (worth 10,000 baht each), 228 yellow chips (worth 1,000 baht each), 396 red chips (worth 500 baht each), 12 green chips, 12 clear chips, 2 decks of cards, and 4 chip exchange rate sheets.
The suspects were charged with illegal gambling operations and participation in unauthorized gambling activities. All defendants admitted to gambling charges but denied any involvement with narcotics.
Commissioner Thiti explained that the establishment’s exclusive nature – serving only Chinese clients through Chinese connections – had made it difficult for local police to detect. He noted that areas like Wang Thonglang, Huai Khwang, and Sutthisan have seen an influx of foreign investment, creating opportunities for illegal operations.
“While we must thoroughly investigate such cases and take disciplinary action when negligence is found, we must also ensure fairness when officers have performed their duties properly,” Pol. Lt. Gen. Thiti concluded.
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