Pathum Thani—
Thai authorities launched a late-night operation on an illegal nightclub. There were more than 236 people found positive on drug tests.
At 1:45 AM, on October 22nd, 2023, Mr. Orasit Samphantharat, the Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration, the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) team, and other relevant agencies launched a late-night operation on an entertainment venue on Hathairat Road, Lam Luk Ka, Pathum Thani.
Lam Luk Ka locals had been repeatedly reporting on the alleged entertainment venue to the Damrongtham Center, Ministry of Interior, on granting permission to minors under the age of 20 for service, drug trafficking within the establishment, possession of firearms, and an alleged influential figure in the area involved with the club.
During the operation, there were more than 300 visitors in the establishment, the police officers then instructed them to calm down. However, many visitors attempted to escape the scene and threw illicit substances away to get rid of any evidence. But the police team had blocked the entrance and exits in advance to stop anyone from escaping.
The establishment had no license and allegedly allowed the use of illicit drugs such as ketamine, happy water, and meth. Meanwhile, the police officers conducted drug tests on 281 visitors, surprisingly, there were more than 236 individuals found positive.
The relevant officials then took the alleged owners and involved individuals into custody for further legal proceedings.
Orasit publicly revealed that the entertainment venue engaged in clear violations of the law, including the operation of an unlicensed establishment, selling alcoholic beverages beyond permitted hours, and allowing the sale and consumption of illicit substances within the premises. Furthermore, a guard also had an improvised blank firearm with bullets in possession.
Consequently, Orasit would report to the Governor of Pathum Thani Province to issue the closure of the establishment for 5 years accordingly.
The name of the venue and alleged influential person involved were withheld by police pending further investigation.
