Pattaya karaoke raid uncovers illegal workers and minors
Police raided a Pattaya karaoke venue, uncovering illegal employment of foreign women and detaining eight tourists who tested positive for drugs. The operation also revealed four minors, under 14 years old, inside the venue, leading to serious charges.
Early today, December 12, Thai law enforcement led a significant raid on a karaoke establishment in Pattaya, Thailand.
The operation was spearheaded by high-ranking officials, including Jiraphop Phuridech, Pattanapong Sripinproh, Navin Theerawit, Sirachat Nutes, Kiattikong Thongkham, Phranieng Prommee, Sit Poonwong, and Pakorn Muensikeaw.
The joint effort involved the Human Trafficking Suppression Division (BKP) and Pattaya police, targeting a particular area within Soi Ko Phai Two, Nong Prue, Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri province.
The raid followed a tip-off from an informant who reported illegal activities at the karaoke venue, including employing undocumented foreign workers, operating beyond permitted hours, and connections to drug-related crimes and local influential figures.
Upon entering and inspecting four karaoke venues, police found three of them filled with customers, though no illegal activities were detected. However, the second venue continued to operate as if it were early evening, attracting immediate attention.
A shocking discovery was made when identification checks revealed the presence of four minors, all under 14 years old, enjoying the services. Furthermore, nine foreign women, from Laos and Myanmar, were employed to entertain patrons without proper work permits.
The situation escalated when drug tests conducted on both employees and patrons resulted in eight individuals testing positive for drugs. Despite a thorough search of the premises, no additional illegal substances or items were found, reported KhaoSod.
The management of the venue now faces three serious charges: running an unlicensed establishment, employing foreign nationals without work permits, and allowing minors under 18 years old to access the venue. Additionally, a person with an outstanding arrest warrant related to a mule account was apprehended, with further legal proceedings underway.
