Crime Chiang Mai Police Raid 7 Venues Over Underage Workers

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

Chiang Mai police have raided seven entertainment venues in the city’s San Sai district, following complaints that underage girls were being openly employed as service staff.

 

The operation, which took place shortly after midnight on 22 August, was led by Pol Maj Gen Worapong Kamlu, commander of the Provincial Police Region 5 Investigation Division, together with senior officers, labour protection officials, and anti-trafficking foundations including ZOE, Lift and Rapha.

 

Authorities said the raids followed long-standing allegations that the venues were linked to human trafficking and the exploitation of girls under 18.

 

Of the seven establishments inspected, three were found to be breaking the law.

 

• Baan Phuean Bar was found employing seven girls under 18 as hostesses, while two others under 20 were caught drinking alcohol inside the premises. The 52-year-old owner, identified only as Mr Chai, was arrested on charges including allowing minors to engage in inappropriate behaviour, operating without a licence and selling alcohol to minors.

 

• Ma Nee Ma Bar was discovered to have one girl under 18 working as a “drinks companion.” The 43-year-old owner, Mr Surasak, was detained on similar charges.

 

• Kueng Ka Moo Bar also had a girl under 18 working inside. The 44-year-old owner, Mr Pratchaya, was arrested and faces prosecution under child protection and entertainment laws.

 

The other four venues inspected, Laeng Ma Mao, Chan Dara, Tong 999, and Ka Long, were not found in breach at the time of the raid.

 

Police confirmed that investigations are continuing and warned that further crackdowns on entertainment venues in Chiang Mai would follow in a bid to stamp out underage labour and trafficking.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-08-23