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Phuket Russian Bar Raided for Multiple Offences

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Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

A Russian-operated bar in Phuket’s Thalang district has been raided for allegedly operating without a licence, trading beyond permitted hours and selling banned smoking products, with two suspects arrested and multiple charges filed. The operation took place at around 01.00 on 15 February 2026 at Safari Lounge Bar, located at 49 Bandon–Cherngtalay Road, Cherngtalay subdistrict, Thalang district, Phuket. Authorities seized large quantities of baraku equipment and related items, along with cash.

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The raid followed a tip-off from a concerned citizen reporting that the venue, situated in a commercial area, was operating as an entertainment establishment without authorisation. It was alleged that the bar, run by Russian nationals, featured live music, remained open beyond legal hours and allowed baraku smoking inside the premises. Phuket Governor Nirut Phongsittithaworn ordered a special provincial administrative team to investigate.

The operation was led by Phuket Deputy Governor Rungreung Thimabutr and Provincial Defence Chief Danai Suksakul, alongside administrative officers and members of the Volunteer Defence Corps. Inspectors found the venue functioning as a full entertainment outlet, serving food and drinks, with a DJ providing music and numerous foreign tourists present. Multiple areas inside the bar were found to have baraku smoking, and a Russian national identified only as Mr.Kamil was reported to be overseeing operations, while some staff were Myanmar nationals.

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Two suspects were detained and face six charges. The Russian suspect was charged under Sections 242 and 246 paragraph one of the Customs Act B.E. 2560 (2017), in conjunction with Ministry of Commerce regulations prohibiting the import of electronic baraku or e-cigarettes, for allegedly handling prohibited goods.

Additional charges include violating Consumer Protection Board Order 9/2558 for selling baraku products, operating an entertainment venue after midnight without permission under the Entertainment Places Act B.E. 2509 (1966) and its amendments, selling alcohol during prohibited hours under Section 28 of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act B.E. 2551 (2008), working without a permit under Section 8 of the Foreign Workers Management Emergency Decree B.E. 2560 (2017), and failing to notify authorities of foreign employees within 15 days under Section 13 of the same decree.

The Myanmar national was charged under Section 64/2 of the Foreign Workers Management Emergency Decree B.E. 2560 (2017) for failing to notify the registrar of employer details and job description within 15 days of starting work.

Khoasod reported that officials have transferred both suspects and the seized evidence to investigators for further legal proceedings. Authorities have not disclosed additional details regarding potential penalties or court dates.

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Key Takeaways

• Phuket officials raided Safari Lounge Bar at 01.00 on 15 February 2026 following a public complaint.

• Two suspects, including a Russian national identified as Mr. Kamil, face six charges related to prohibited goods, licensing and labour violations.

• Large quantities of baraku equipment and cash were seized, and the case has been forwarded for legal action.

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image.png  Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 16 Feb 2026

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