Crime Illegal Cockfighting Ring Raided in Chiang Rai – 30 Gamblers Arrested

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Matichon.

 

Authorities in Chiang Rai have raided an illegal cockfighting den, arresting 30 individuals and seizing gambling paraphernalia after a dramatic scene in which participants fled into nearby fields and forest upon the arrival of officers.

 

The operation followed complaints from local residents in Ban Chai Niwet, Village 13, Wiang Chai District, who reported loud noise and gatherings linked to unauthorised cockfighting and gambling. The reports prompted Chiang Rai Governor Mr. Charin Thongsuk to assign District Chief Mr. Bodin Thiamphakdee and Pol. Col. Wichai Chaiuenkham, Superintendent of Wiang Chai Police Station, to investigate.

 

A joint task force comprising district security officers, led by Mr. Wisit Thuancheep (Chiang Rai Provincial Defence Chief), Mr. Phakhin Phunket (Wiang Chai Assistant District Officer) and local police officers, conducted the raid.

 

Upon arrival at the premises, authorities discovered a large group of individuals gathered around cockfighting activities. As soon as they noticed the official vehicles, participants scattered in all directions, abandoning their motorbikes and fleeing across paddy fields, woodland and irrigation ditches.

 

Officers managed to secure the scene, where they found evidence of active gambling including a cockfighting ring, betting slips and cash placed above the ring. The venue also featured a training pit, fight pairing boards and stalls selling food and beverages.

 

One man, Mr. Thongsuk identified himself as the owner of the property. He admitted to organising cockfighting events without a licence. He has been charged with hosting illegal gambling activities.

 

The 30 individuals arrested at the scene have been charged with participating in illegal gambling. All suspects were formally booked and transferred to Wiang Chai Police Station for further legal proceedings.

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Matichon 2025-06-22