Authorities Raid Illegal Poker Game in Pattaya, Arrest 12 Including Foreign National
Authorities in Pattaya have arrested 12 people, including international tourists, during a raid on an illegal poker game hosted at a Jomtien residence.
The raid involved Chonburi Immigration Police, Pattaya Tourist Police, and Pattaya Police. The operation followed a tip-off from concerned locals who reported that foreign nationals were hosting gambling activities at a residence just two streets away from the Immigration Police Station.
Upon inspection, officers found that the lower floor of the building was disguised as a beer bar, while the upper floor had been converted into a room equipped for hosting illegal poker games.
Inside, authorities discovered seven international tourists from Australia, Russia, the United States, and the United Kingdom actively playing poker. Additionally, five Thai nationals were present, reportedly acting as card dealers, assistants, and staff. Police confiscated poker tables, multiple decks of cards, and cash as evidence.
Illegal gambling is strictly prohibited in Thailand, and the authorities have intensified efforts to crack down on such activities in tourist hubs like Pattaya.
The suspects are now in police custody and face charges related to illegal gambling. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the extent of the operation and whether it is part of a larger gambling network.
Local officials urged the public to report any suspicious activities to help maintain law and order in the area. Further updates on the case are expected as the investigation progresses.
