Key points:
- Police raided a suspected poker ring on Central Pattaya Road
- Nineteen arrested including ten foreign nationals
- Estimated cash turnover exceeded THB5m ($136,000)
Pattaya police have broken up an illegal gambling operation hidden within the Mind Sports Club on Central Pattaya Road, arresting 19 people during a targeted raid on 23 April.
The enforcement action was led by Superintendent Pol Col Anek Srathongyu following intelligence reports that poker games were being conducted unlawfully on the premises.
The ground floor of the venue functioned as a snooker club, while the upper floor had been converted into a poker lounge. Authorities found 13 players in the act of gambling, supported by six staff members managing the room. The group included nine Thai citizens and ten foreign nationals.
Those detained included individuals from Singapore, Canada, Russia, Denmark, Myanmar, Cambodia and the Philippines, as well as three Malaysian nationals. Police identified a 65-year-old Singaporean, Yin Choun Lau, as the organiser of the gambling activity.
Players reportedly paid THB1,800 to join each round, with betting amounts ranging approximately THB75,000 to THB150,000. Investigators estimate that the total cash turnover linked to the operation exceeded THB5m.
Although the event was styled as a poker competition, authorities confirmed it violated Thai gambling laws. Mr Lau faces charges related to organising illegal gambling, while the remaining 18 individuals have been charged with participating in unlawful betting.
All suspects have been handed over to investigators for further legal processing. Police said the raid underscores their continued focus on curbing unauthorised gambling activity, particularly where foreign nationals are involved.
