Phuket Police Bust Illegal Gambling Ring, 13 Chinese Tourists Caught

[webfact]

Picture courtesy of Phuket Provincial Police
 

As Phuket prepares to bask in the summer sun, a recent police operation has brought a different spotlight to the island. On 20th February, Phuket Provincial Police arrested 13 Chinese tourists involved in an illegal gambling operation in the heart of Phuket Town. Supported by local Thai collaborators, the gambling haven was uncovered amid growing concerns about illicit activities catering to foreign visitors.

 

The orchestrated raid, led by Police Colonel Ekkalak Boonsangcharoen, targeted the Phuket Poker Sport Club in Soi Poonphol. The swoop, executed at 11 pm, unveiled a scene of covert activities where the tourists were found exchanging chips worth over 1 million Thai Baht (approximately £22,200) for cash.

 

This stash of illicit earnings included a bevy of gambling paraphernalia such as four poker tables, two fish shooting arcade machines, and five electric mahjong tables.

 

A single Thai gambler was also caught in the police net, having been present at this underground gaming joint run by a local Thai national with Chinese connections. The raid resulted in the confiscation of all gambling equipment and funds, which were swiftly transported to the Phuket City Police Station for further investigation and legal measures.

Phuket Provincial Police Commander, Police Major General Sinlert Sukhum, has since stated that investigations are ongoing, delving into the roles of both Thai nationals and potential Chinese investors linked to this operation. The authorities are keen to unearth deeper connections, which may indicate a broader network of clandestine gambling enterprises.

 

Picture courtesy: Phuket Provincial Police

 

Meanwhile, in a related crackdown in Bangkok's Don Mueang district, another gambling den was dismantled the same day by police officers led by Police Major General Jesada Suaysom and Police Major General Chotiwat Lueangwilai.

 

This venue, notorious for its repeat offenses, was raided for the third time since 2024. Police uncovered a newly constructed, highly fortified entrance, and despite a rush of attempted escapes, managed to detain 29 individuals, comprising 10 men and 19 women.

 

These decisive actions reflect a broader law enforcement agenda aimed at curbing illegal activities, ensuring that the anticipated summer influx of visitors can enjoy the island and the Thai mainland without encountering illicit distractions. As Phuket enters the vibrant and lucrative summer season, the authorities are keen to maintain both the legal and social tranquillity that attracts tourists to its shores, reported The Thaiger.

 

-- 2025-02-22

 

 

[Woke to Sounds]

Dammit!

 

Just when I was about to open my illegal gambling centre!

 

At least I still have my scam call centre in the pipeline.

[ronster]

So where did they get the table from if gambling is illegal ?

Not like you can say oh I think it looks nice in my home , I promise I not use it 😀

[hotchilli]

2 hours ago, webfact said:

The raid resulted in the confiscation of all gambling equipment and funds, which were swiftly transported to the Phuket City Police Station for further investigation and legal measures.

I can imagine...bagged and safely put in storage for a rainy day

[Tropicalevo]

3 hours ago, webfact said:

targeted the Phuket Poker Sport Club

 

Surely the name was a bit of a giveaway

[connda]

In other news: Thailand moves to embrace casinos.  News At Six!

[Maybole]

11 hours ago, Woke to Sounds said:

Dammit!

 

Just when I was about to open my illegal gambling centre!

 

At least I still have my scam call centre in the pipeline.

Probably hired from the local cop shop, being part of the loot from a previous raid.

[petedk]

21 hours ago, ronster said:

So where did they get the table from if gambling is illegal ?

Not like you can say oh I think it looks nice in my home , I promise I not use it 😀

 

Imported directly from China.

There are some very dubious Chinese near us and when they first moved in the were huge boxes with all Chinese writing on them delivered almost every day. I saw big tables being loaded off trucks several times, even though these luxury houses are fully furnished.