Raid busts Phuket karaoke owners for alien employees

PHUKET: Anti-human trafficking raids of Phuket’s nightlife venues last night netted two employers for hiring illegal migrant workers from Myanmar.

Saengthian Luepanya, 24, owner of the Happy Sea Man karaoke, was arrested for employing Myanmar nationals Lwin Thuza Myint, 26, and Thi Dar, 42, Phuket City Police Deputy Superintendent Khunnadet Nanongkhai told the Phuket Gazette.

Later that night, police discovered two Myanmar nationals working at Thitaporn karaoke in Phuket Town. The 37-year-old owner of the bar, Kritsana Musija, was arrested along with the workers: Myint Than, 26, and Ohn Mar Win, 27.

“The four Myanmar nationals will be charged for working illegally,” Col Khunnadet said. “As for Ms Saengthian and Ms Kritsana, they will be charged for hiring employees without a work permit.”

All six suspects were taken to Phuket City Police Station.

“We will continue to check all entertainment venues in the Phuket City Police Station’s jurisdiction for cases of human trafficking or employment of illegal workers,” said Col Khunnadet.

“Eliminating the human-trafficking trade is one of our highest priorities.”

— Kongeleaphy Keam