Thai authorities raid illegal gambling venue in Samut Sakhon province
An illegal entertainment venue in Thailand’s Samut Sakhon province disguised as a warehouse was raided by authorities. The venue, located in a rented warehouse in Tambon Thachin, Muang district, was reportedly operated by a Myanmar national and catered primarily to migrant workers. During the raid, officials found small quantities of illegal drugs and military-grade weapons inside the premises.
Officials reported that around 150 Myanmar nationals were living in the warehouse. The venue catered exclusively to Myanmar workers. Reports indicate that drug use was allowed and some gambling activities were taking place inside.
The operation took place on Monday evening (April 28), led by Samut Sakhon Governor Naris Niramaiwong and Pichet Thongphan, Inspector-General of the Ministry of Labour. They were joined by more than 200 officials from the police, military, and local government agencies.
Venue offered entertainment services
The warehouse, from the outside, appeared to be a normal rental space with a fenced gate and surrounding wall. Inside, however, it had been turned into a full-scale entertainment venue. It included a pub, karaoke rooms with VIP sections, and snooker tables. The place was called “Happy Bar” and reportedly charged 250 baht per hour, with an offer of one free hour for every two hours booked.
During the search, officers found methamphetamine pills hidden in sofas and other parts of the building. Small amounts of illegal drugs were also found discarded in room corners. In addition, military-grade firearms and live ammunition were discovered. Governor Naris confirmed the weapons find but gave no further details.
Several people involved in illegal activities were detained for questioning. Authorities also seized snooker tables and other equipment from the site. No official details of the individuals held have been released.
Governor Naris stated that the entertainment venue was operating without permission. He said legal action would be taken against the Myanmar national running the operation and the Thai person who leased out the warehouse. The building has been ordered to close.
Gambling in Thailand
Thailand is on the brink of a major change in its gambling laws, with the government advancing a proposal to legalise casinos within large entertainment complexes.
The proposed Entertainment Complex Bill which aims to create legal casino resorts within designated entertainment zones has sparked widespread protests and criticism. Opponents of the bill argue that it prioritises economic benefits over social concerns, potentially worsening gambling addiction, corruption and economic inequality.
