Pattaya police conducted a raid on an entertainment venue as part of their newly implemented 5-Free policy. This policy aims to ensure that entertainment venues are free from children, drugs, weapons, prostitution, and any other safety hazards.
At 2:36 AM, Pol. Lt. Col. Sirichat Nuthet, Deputy Superintendent of Investigation at Pattaya City Police Station, and Mr. Pichananon Thawisuk, Banglamung District Chief, led a team of over 50 officers, including specialists in human trafficking, to inspect various entertainment venues across Pattaya City. Their primary target was the Fin Pub Pattaya on Third Road, where they discovered more than 200 tourists partying and dancing.
Officers ordered the venue to shut down the music, turn on the lights, and end the party. They then separated male and female guests and checked their IDs to ensure no one under 20 years of age was present. While no drugs were found during this initial check, subsequent urine tests revealed that over 20 tourists had purple urine, which can indicate potential drug use. A clear plastic zip-lock bag was also discovered on the premises and will be tested for drugs. The team will review CCTV footage to identify the person who discarded the bag.
Additionally, officers searched vehicles parked at the venue for weapons and drugs but found nothing illegal. Tourists with purple urine were taken to a local hospital for further drug screening. Those found to have drugs in their system will face legal action and possible arrest.
According to The Pattaya News, drug testing during club inspections is legal in Thailand. While these inspections typically focus on Thai tourists, they can sometimes involve foreign tourists as well. It is also legal to check vehicles parked at club premises.
Police confirmed that the club itself was operating legally, with all necessary licenses and no other issues.
TPN credit
