BANGKOK, Thailand – Wang Thonglang police inspected 17 nightlife venues across Lat Phrao, Mahat Thai and Town in Town late Friday night, finding two karaoke businesses selling alcohol beyond the legal hours. The operation began at about 11:30 p.m. on September 11, led by Wang Thonglang Police Station chief Pol Col Jetsada Yangnok with officers from the station and S.W.A.T. officers from Metropolitan Police Division 4.
Police divided the operation into three teams to inspect entertainment venues and businesses operating in a similar manner to entertainment venues. The operation focused on preventing crime, drugs, illegal gambling-related activities, weapons, human trafficking, prostitution and illegal nominee businesses.
Officers checked identification cards, searched for weapons and screened for possible human trafficking and prostitution. Urine tests for drugs were also conducted on 98 customers, with no drugs or serious illegal items found.
However, officers checking operating hours and alcohol sales found two venues allegedly selling alcoholic drinks beyond the legally permitted hours: Sema Karaoke and Ton Koon Karaoke. People involved were taken to investigators for legal proceedings. Pol Col Jetsada said Wang Thonglang police would continue implementing the “Safe Wang Thonglang” strategy and reminded operators to comply with licensing requirements and other regulations.
Police also reminded venues that customers under 20 must not be admitted, weapons and drugs are prohibited, alcohol must only be sold during permitted hours and noise must be controlled to avoid disturbing nearby residents. Residents can report suspected illegal activity to Wang Thonglang Police Station at 02-184-4339 or call the 191 emergency hotline around the clock.
