High stakes: Police roll the dice on Bangkok gambling den
Police in Bangkok have once again raided a notorious gambling den operated by Kiat Don Mueang, also known as Panuae.
Over 100 gamblers were caught in the act of playing the traditional Thai game known as hi-lo during the raid. This marks yet another crackdown on the illegal establishment that has been raided multiple times before yet continues to operate.
At 4.20pm yesterday, December 9, a team of officers led by Attapol Anusit, the Commander of the Metropolitan Police Bureau Division 2, along with other senior police officials, executed a search warrant at a building located on Songprapa Road, Soi 1, in the Don Mueang district of Bangkok.
The search warrant, issued by the Criminal Court, was part of an ongoing investigation into the illegal gambling activities at this location.
The raid resulted in the arrest of approximately 100 people on charges related to illegal gambling. Police also seized gambling equipment used in the game of hi-lo as evidence.
The building where the operation took place is reportedly owned by 68 year old Kiat Don Mueang who is well-known in the area for managing a futsal field.
Despite a sign declaring the closure of his business on March 15, 2020, Kiat has allegedly continued to run the gambling den, evading law enforcement efforts multiple times.
This raid marked the seventh time where police had conducted a search at this location following numerous complaints from the community, reported KhaoSod.
The individuals caught in the raid have been taken to the Don Mueang Police Station for further legal proceedings.
This operation is part of a broader effort by the Metropolitan Police to crack down on illegal gambling operations throughout the city, which are often linked to other criminal activities.
The notorious gambling den has been a thorn in the side of local law enforcement for years. Despite previous raids and arrests, the establishment continues to attract gamblers. The venue’s owner, Kiat, is well-known in the district, and his continued defiance of the law has raised questions about the effectiveness of past enforcement actions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
Why do illegal gambling dens like Kiat’s persist despite repeated raids?
Factors include community demand, possible corruption, or insufficient legal deterrents, allowing operations to resume despite law enforcement efforts.
How might the community actively contribute to dismantling illegal gambling operations?
Community vigilance, reporting suspicious activities, and participating in awareness campaigns can support law enforcement in curbing illegal gambling.
What if stricter penalties were imposed on illegal gambling operations?
Harsher penalties could deter operators and participants by increasing the risk, potentially reducing the occurrence of such activities.
What role does technology play in combating illegal gambling activities?
Technology aids in surveillance, tracking financial transactions, and gathering evidence, enhancing law enforcement’s ability to disrupt illegal operations.
How can law enforcement improve strategies to prevent recurring illegal gambling activities?
Enhanced intelligence gathering, inter-agency cooperation, and community partnerships can create more effective prevention strategies.
Latest Thailand News
