Thai police have arrested 11 people and seized various types of drugs after raiding an alleged illegal nightclub in Bangkok that was reportedly operating under the cover of a gaming shop.
The four-storey commercial building was raided on July 18 following information that the premises was allegedly running a 24-hour nightlife operation and supplying drugs to customers.
During the operation, police discovered 28 individuals, including customers and staff, inside the building. Authorities seized 224 ecstasy pills, 51.16 grammes of crystal methamphetamine, 3.83 grammes of cocaine, 326.24 grammes of ketamine, as well as 19 ketamine vapes and 38 electronic cigarettes.
Police also confiscated 91,000 baht in cash, two rings and an amulet with a gold-coloured casing, with the total value of seized items estimated at around 300,000 baht.
Investigators said the venue allegedly used a gaming shop as a front while hiding its actual operations behind tarpaulins and parked vehicles. Entry was reportedly limited to regular customers, including bar hosts and entertainment workers who continued gathering after other nightlife outlets had closed.
Police claimed customers were able to purchase drugs such as ketamine, ketamine vapes and ecstasy from staff before consuming them inside the premises. The venue was also said to have blacked-out windows, causing difficulty in distinguishing between day and night, with activity reportedly peaking between 4am and 3pm.
Further checks found that the premises was operating without an entertainment licence and failed to meet basic safety requirements, including having only one main entrance and exit with no emergency escape route.
Police said the owner, identified as Somchai, and an employee, Phatthana, were charged with possession of narcotics with intent to sell, possession of electronic cigarettes, operating an unlicensed entertainment venue and violating operating hour regulations.
Nine other employees and customers who allegedly tested positive for drug use were also detained for further legal action.
Somchai reportedly admitted to operating the venue for around one to two years and claimed responsibility for the drugs seized during the raid, saying they were obtained for personal use as well as distribution to customers.
Authorities said investigations will continue to identify the alleged drug suppliers and other individuals believed to be involved in the operation.
