PATTAYA, Thailand – On June 16, 2025, at 9:36 PM, a joint operation led by the Central Investigation Bureau’s Anti-Human Trafficking Division (AHTD) descended on Pattaya’s Walking Street to enforce strict measures against human trafficking and other illegal activities.
The operation, under the command of Pol. Maj. Gen. Songklod Gerikkritya, Commander of the AHTD and Secretary of the National Anti-Human Trafficking Center (NAHTC), and Pol. Col. Kreetha Tankanarat, was directed by Pol. Lt. Gen. Thatchai Pitaneelabut, Deputy Commissioner of the NAHTC, and Pol. Lt. Gen. Jiraphob Phuridech, Commander of the Central Investigation Bureau.
The task force, comprising officers from Pattaya City Police, Chonburi Immigration Office, Pattaya City officials, the Chonburi Department of Social Development and Human Security, and the A21 Foundation, conducted inspections along the bustling Walking Street in South Pattaya. The operation aligns with NAHTC’s policy to intensify efforts against human trafficking and raise awareness among entertainment venue operators.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Songklod stated to The Pattaya News and other media that the primary objective was to educate business owners about preventing human trafficking risks. He stressed a strict prohibition on employing individuals under 18 in entertainment venues, warning that such actions could constitute sexual exploitation of minors, a serious offense under human trafficking laws with severe penalties.
Additionally, individuals under 20 are barred from patronizing these establishments. The operation also targeted the prevention of weapons and narcotics, including the rising issue of illegal nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) sales, which poses health risks to consumers.
Following the inspections, authorities reported no immediate concerns, citing the local agencies’ rigorous enforcement and consistent arrests of offenders. Long-term strategies have been integrated to address these issues effectively. Pol. Maj. Gen. Songklod urged the public to report any suspicious activities to the AHTD’s 24-hour hotline at 1191.
The operation shows Pattaya’s commitment to maintaining a safe and strictly regulated environment for tourists and residents alike.
