PATTAYA, Thailand – More than 200 police and social development officials carried out a late-night inspection of Pattaya Beach and other public areas on Aug. 29, detaining 25 people allegedly involved in soliciting tourists for prostitution. The operation covered Pattaya Beach, Second Road and other identified risk areas, following reports of people loitering, approaching or soliciting tourists for prostitution.
Authorities detained 18 Thai nationals, five Lao nationals and two Ugandan nationals. All were taken for legal processing, including fines and administrative penalty procedures where applicable.
Chonburi Social Development and Human Security officials said such behaviour affects public order and Pattaya’s image as an international tourism destination. They stressed that prostitution remains illegal under Thai law.
The intensified inspections come ahead of the expected port call by the USS Abraham Lincoln from Sept. 2-6. The US aircraft carrier is reportedly scheduled to bring around 5,000 sailors and Marines to Pattaya for a rest and replenishment stop after operations in the Middle East. The visit is expected to generate an estimated 5 million to 15 million baht in local spending.
The Royal Thai Navy spokesperson said the port call is intended for crew rest and recovery and logistical support under the longstanding Thailand-US defense cooperation framework. It is not a joint military exercise or operation with the Royal Thai Navy and is not linked to the situation in any particular country.
