Vietnamese trio arrested on drug charges in Nonthaburi karaoke bar

Thai police apprehended three Vietnamese nationals on drug charges at a Nonthaburi karaoke bar that catered exclusively to Vietnamese patrons, according to a police statement released today.

Police raided at the establishment located within Bua Thong Market 3 in tambon Bang Bua Thong at 1am yesterday, September 12. This action followed a complaint alleging that foreigners were operating a bar where illegal drugs were being consumed, stated Police Colonel Phreut Chamroonsart, chief of the Bang Bua Thong police station.

During the raid, officers discovered a pistol loaded with three bullets and numerous sachets containing ecstasy and ketamine on a counter table.

The arrested individuals include one woman and two men: 28 year old Ho Thi Bien; 35 year old Hoang Duc Anh; and 31 year old Nguyen Huu Long. Police enlisted the help of an interpreter to facilitate the interrogation process.

In their statements, the suspects claimed that the bar was owned by a Thai national and that they were merely caretakers, each earning a monthly salary of 15,000 baht (US$450).

“There were no customers inside the bar at the time of the raid. The nightspot had opened just 10 days earlier,” said Pol. Col. Phreut.

Investigators had been closely monitoring the bar after receiving information that it catered solely to Vietnamese customers, according to Pol. Col. Phreut.

The three suspects face multiple charges, including possession of drugs with intent to sell, illegal possession of firearms, illegal entry, and working without permits. They remain in police custody pending legal action, reported Bangkok Post.

Police plan to shut down the bar and summon its Thai owner for questioning regarding their involvement in the illicit activities.

In related news, Pattaya police raided a gambling den on October 6, uncovering a significant stash of drugs after the suspects made a swift getaway.

At around 12.15pm, October 6, officers targeted a small gambling operation tucked away in a parking lot on Soi 3 near Jomtien Beach, following numerous complaints from residents.