Gambling Den Busted in Bangkok’s Saphan Mai Area, Cambodian Operator Arrested

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod.

In a sweeping crackdown on an illegal gambling operations, The Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA) raided a large and well-organised underground casino in the Saphan Mai district of northern Bangkok. The raid, which took place on the afternoon of 4 July, followed numerous public complaints and culminated in the arrest of over 70 individuals, including a Cambodian national identified as one of the ringleaders.

The operation was launched at approximately 15:30 under the directive of Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and carried out by DOPA’s Special Operations Task Force led by Director-General Chaiwat Chuntirapong. The gambling den was located in a shophouse complex on Phahonyothin 52, less than 300 metres from a BTS Skytrain station, operating with blatant disregard for law enforcement and the local community.

Organised and Sophisticated Setup

Upon gaining entry, officers found more than 50 gamblers in action, playing both traditional games such as hi-lo and online gambling via computer terminals. The premises featured multiple escape routes, safes for storing large amounts of cash, a food and drink service and even a mobile phone check-in system to reduce risk of exposure. Staff were posted at entrances with radio communication equipment to alert others inside of incoming raids.

Despite these precautions, the task force successfully sealed off all exits, preventing escape. Chaos ensued as gamblers scrambled to flee, but the authorities swiftly regained control of the situation. Over 800,000 baht in cash was seized on site, along with gambling paraphernalia and computers used for online betting. Further investigation revealed the operation was managed in rotating shifts by both Thai and Cambodian nationals.

High-Level Political Attention and Immediate Consequences

The dramatic raid came on the same day that Interior Minister Phumtham assumed office and immediately issued an order to restore public order by targeting illegal gambling. Following the raid, the top five commanding officers of Bang Khen Police Station, including the superintendent, deputy superintendents, and two senior investigators, were transferred pending an internal investigation. Reports indicate the illegal casino may have ties to a major political party, raising questions about political protection and possible retribution motives.

Chaiwat Chuntirapong emphasised that this crackdown aligns with the Ministry of Interior’s broader anti-mafia agenda. “Any illegal activity that disturbs public order will be met with strict enforcement,” he stated. He also urged the public to report any similar operations to the Damrongdhama Centre hotline at 1567.

An Outcry from the Community

The raid came after multiple complaints from residents who reported the casino had led to serious social problems, including gambling addiction and domestic conflicts. Locals expressed relief following the operation, having long feared for their safety in a neighbourhood housing such a bold and unlawful enterprise.

Investigations into the full extent of the gambling ring’s financial operations are ongoing, and the arrested individuals are being processed through legal channels. Further action is expected against those found to be complicit in enabling or shielding the illegal operation.

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-07-06