Pattaya crackdown: over 50 arrested in major anti-drug operation
Police in Pattaya have executed a large-scale operation resulting in the arrest of over 50 individuals as part of a concerted effort to combat drug use and criminal activity in the Jomtien area. The operation, named Parasite Clean-up Part 2, was led by Police Major General Thawatchakrit Jindakwanasong, Chief of Chon Buri Provincial Police, and took place in the early hours of yesterday, December 23.
A significant police presence of over 900 officers, accompanied by drug-sniffing dogs, targeted Soi 2, 3, and 4 in Jomtien, a sector of Pattaya known for its challenges. This area, characterised by its five-story buildings housing businesses like beer bars, restaurants, laundry shops, and massage parlours on the ground floor, has seen a dramatic increase in illegal activities.
The upper floors of these buildings serve as living spaces, with many now abandoned and in disrepair. The downturn, exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic, has led to a rise in squatters and homelessness, which police link to the surge in illegal activities.
During the operation, police strategically cut internet signals, communication systems, and, in some instances, water and electricity supplies to the targeted buildings. This enabled them to conduct thorough searches for illegal items, including weapons and drug paraphernalia, and to perform drug tests on individuals present in the area.
Several people were found to be using methamphetamine, displaying erratic behaviour, while others were discovered in possession of drugs.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Thawatchakrit emphasised that the operation’s goal was to root out all crime forms, particularly drug-related offenses and illegal weapon possession. “Over 50 arrests were made,” he confirmed.
Looking ahead, Pol. Maj. Gen. Thawatchakrit announced plans for future operations aimed at addressing the underlying issues contributing to crime in the area. These efforts will utilise the Jomtien Soi 3 Model, a strategy involving high-impact raids in areas known for drug problems to eliminate criminal elements, reported The Pattaya News.
“After eradicating these illegal activities, we aim to collaborate with business owners and city officials to reopen family-friendly businesses and revitalise the local economy.”
