Pattaya, Thailand – Authorities have launched a full-scale investigation and ordered the immediate shutdown of an illegal nightclub following the death of a Chinese tourist who was brutally assaulted by staff and patrons inside the venue. Ten people from Thailand, China, and Myanmar have been arrested and claimed self defense and that the victim was the instigator.
The incident occurred at Vegas Exclusive Club in South Pattaya. The victim, a Chinese national, was severely beaten and suffered life-threatening injuries. Rescue workers and medical teams attempted to revive him with CPR at the scene, but he succumbed to his injuries shortly afterward.
Following the alert, Pattaya City Police, local administrative officials, and rescue teams responded swiftly. Police have now managed to detain all individuals believed to be involved.
On May 7, 2026, Pol. Maj. Gen. Phongphan Wongmanithet, Commander of Chonburi Provincial Police, along with Pol. Col. Anek Srathongyu, Superintendent of Pattaya City Police Station, and Pol. Lt. Col. Arus Sabanonth, Deputy Superintendent, announced that 10 individuals had been arrested and taken in for questioning at Pattaya Police Station.
The suspects include:
– 1 Chinese national: Mr. Chun, 38
– 1 Myanmar national: Mr. Akwa, 23
– 6 Thai adults: Ms. Buakham, 42; Mr. Wachira, 18; Mr. Phimphat, 23; Mr. Sittisak, 18; Mr. Sorot, 29; and Mr. Thanaphat, 43
– 2 Thai youths
The suspects claimed the victim was heavily intoxicated, became disruptive, and initiated an argument that escalated into a physical brawl, resulting in his fatal injuries. They claimed the victim started the confrontation, not them, and was self defense.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the entertainment venue was operating illegally without proper permits. It is reportedly owned by a Chinese national and managed by a Thai nominee, a common arrangement used to bypass foreign ownership restrictions. Such operations have drawn criticism for damaging Pattaya’s image as a tourist destination.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Phongphan has instructed Pattaya City Police to thoroughly investigate all parties involved, including the actual owners and nominees, and to take legal action against them. The club has been ordered to close immediately, with strict warnings that any violation will result in severe legal consequences for all those connected to the premises.
The case continues to develop as authorities work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the death and identify any additional individuals who may have financed or benefited from the illegal operation.
