Patong bars raided for staying open late

PATONG: Kathu police raided several bars and nightclubs in Patong yesterday morning for staying open past the 2 am official closing time. Among the venues raided, said Pol Col Kokiat Wongwarachart, Superintendent of the Kathu Police Station, were Hollywood 99 Pub, Up-2-You Bar, Night Moves, Night Station, The Shark Club, VIP Bar, Chicago’s Fun Pub, as well as several other spots on Thaweewongse Road and Soi Sunset. According to Col Kokiat, the raids were a part of the province-wide drive to insure businesses close on time. The penalties for flouting the law on closing hours can be quite severe: up to one year in jail and/or a 5,000-baht fine.