Key points:
- Police raid warehouse in Soi Kaeo In, Bang Yai
- 54 suspects arrested including 8 migrants
- Over THB218,000 (US$5,900) in cash and gambling gear seized
As reported by Bangkok Post, authorities in Nonthaburi have dismantled an illegal gambling operation concealed within a warehouse in Bang Yai district, resulting in 54 arrests and the seizure of over THB218,000 in cash.
The raid was carried out on Wednesday by a joint task force comprising local police and district officials. The operation targeted a one-rai compound on Soi Kaeo In, following intelligence suggesting the site had been converted into a covert casino.
Surrounded by a three-metre-high zinc fence, the premises were air-conditioned and equipped to function as a fully operational gambling venue. Officers gained entry by scaling the fence and discovered dozens of people actively gambling inside.
Among those apprehended were 46 Thai nationals and 8 foreign nationals. Authorities also confiscated gambling paraphernalia in addition to the cash.
Good to know: According to Nonthaburi Governor Kiattisak Trongsiri, the raid forms part of a wider initiative to crack down on illegal gambling hubs across the province
Police are currently reviewing CCTV footage to determine how long the venue had been in operation.
All suspects are expected to face criminal charges, and investigators have not ruled out the possibility of applying anti-money laundering laws where applicable.