Pattaya police conducted a raid on an undercover bar on Walking Street in South Pattaya after receiving reports of illegal nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, being sold to foreign tourists.
During the operation, officers detained Ms. Jutharat, 25, the bar’s cashier, along with Mr. Ye Htay, 27, a Myanmar national, and three other Myanmar employees. The authorities confiscated a variety of evidence, including three nitrous oxide-filled balloons, 29 used balloons, 38 exchange tickets, 80 ticket books, a gas valve with hoses, a gas gun, 14 nitrous oxide cylinders, sales records, and seven receipts. Investigators discovered a hidden room within the bar where customers could obtain nitrous oxide-filled balloons. The gas was stored discreetly at the back of the bar and prepared for distribution. Customers received tickets from the cashier, which they could exchange for balloons in the concealed area.
Despite the evidence, Ms. Jutharat denied any involvement and declined to provide further information during questioning. The three Myanmar employees, however, admitted to filling and selling the balloons under their employer’s instructions.
Ms. Jutharat and Mr. Ye Htay are facing charges for “selling modern medicine without authorization.” The three Myanmar employees are charged with “illegal entry and residence” and “working without a work permit.” All suspects have been transferred to the Pattaya Police Station for further legal proceedings.
