Police Raid Nonthaburi Karaoke Bar Catering to Vietnamese Nationals: Weapons & Drugs Seized

[Georgealbert]

 

 

In the early hours of October 12, 2024, at around 01:00 a police team led by Pol. Maj. Gen. Prathana Phanpha, Commander of the Nonthaburi Provincial Police, raided an unregistered karaoke bar located in Buathong 3 Market, Bang Bua Thong, Nonthaburi. The raid was conducted following reports of illegal drug activity and the venue operating beyond legal hours.

 

Officers from the Nonthaburi Provincial Police, including the Special Operations Unit and Bang Bua Thong Police Station, led by Pol. Col. Phruth Chamrunsaart, Superintendent of Bang Bua Thong Police Station, and his team, discovered a significant quantity of illegal drugs, including ketamine, ecstasy, and crystal methamphetamine, behind the bar counter. Additionally, a 9mm handgun with three bullets was found.

 

The raid resulted in the arrest of three Vietnamese nationals: Mrs. Ho Thi Bien, 28, Mr. Hoang Duc Anh, 35, and Mr. Nguyen Huu Long, 31. None of the suspects could speak Thai, requiring a translator during the investigation. The suspects claimed they were only caretakers of the establishment, receiving a monthly salary of 15,000 baht, while the actual owner of the bar was Thai.

 

 

Pol. Col. Phruth stated that the raid was part of a broader crackdown on illegal establishments, particularly those involving firearms and narcotics. The police had been monitoring this karaoke bar which catered exclusively to Vietnamese customers. The venue had only been in operation for about 10 days, but police swiftly moved in once they had sufficient evidence. Drugs seized included 121.4 grams of ketamine, 11.5 grams of crystal meth, and 61 ecstasy pills.

 

The suspects face multiple charges, including possession of illegal drugs with intent to distribute, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, illegal entry into Thailand, and working without a permit. The police are now seeking the Thai owner of the establishment for further questioning, and the bar has been ordered to shut down.

 

Pol. Col. Phruth emphasised that law enforcement in Bang Bua Thong will continue to strictly enforce drug laws and prevent any further illegal activity in the area. All suspects have been handed over to the investigating officers for prosecution under Thai law.

 

Picture from the police raid.

 

-- 2024-10-13

 

 

[Tropicalevo]

4 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

and the venue operating beyond legal hours.

The article in the BP states that there were no customers in the bar - just the staff.

Would that still be 'operating beyond legal hours?

[brianthainess]

Well at least the Cops did a good job this time, customers or not, now introduce Mandatory Sentencing of at least 2 yrs for gun possession, and other illigal weapons, No Ifs or buts, lock 'em up. Whoever they are, equal justice to all, none of this do you know who I am, crap.

[Liverpool Lou]

6 hours ago, Tropicalevo said:

The article in the BP states that there were no customers in the bar - just the staff.

Would that still be 'operating beyond legal hours?

If it was open, yes, obviously.