BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Phumtham Wechayachai, currently serving as Acting Prime Minister, has launched a swift crackdown on illegal gambling, beginning with the raid of a major underground casino in Bangkok’s Saphan Mai area. The operation followed multiple complaints from residents concerned about the casino’s effect on local safety and family well-being.
Phumtham instructed Permanent Secretary Arsit Sumpandarat to direct Chaiwat Chuntirapong, Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA), to coordinate enforcement. In collaboration with the Territorial Defense Volunteer Corps, a DOPA special operations team was deployed to shut down the casino operating on Soi Phahonyothin 52. The venue offered various forms of gambling, including Sic Bo, and was equipped with computer terminals, food service, and secure storage for mobile phones.
The raid followed internal investigations confirming the casino’s activities. Despite its location just 300 meters from a BTS Skytrain station, the venue had been operating in full view of the community. Residents linked it to an increase in gambling addiction, domestic disputes, and general safety concerns.
During the operation, staff members attempted to use walkie-talkies to warn those inside, but were detained before they could do so. Officers secured all exits in advance, triggering panic among gamblers as they attempted to flee. More than 70 individuals, including Thai and Cambodian nationals, were arrested. Authorities reported the operation ran continuously, with dealers working in rotating shifts.
Officials confiscated over 800,000 baht in cash and documented evidence of large financial turnover. The Ministry of Interior confirmed the investigation is ongoing and that further enforcement actions will follow to address illegal gambling and strengthen community security. (NNT)
