In a major crackdown on illegal activities, authorities raided an unlicensed nightclub in Samphran district, Nakhon Pathom, in the early hours of Sunday, March 23, 2025. The raid, conducted by officials from the Department of Provincial Administration, resulted in 81 visitors testing positive for illegal drugs.

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The operation took place at 3:00 AM at the Neon Pub, following complaints that narcotics were being sold and consumed on the premises. Officials blocked all exits upon entering, ensuring no one could escape, and found 212 visitors inside the venue.

During the raid, patrons were seen throwing small plastic bags containing ketamine and methamphetamine onto the floor in an attempt to hide the evidence. Authorities collected the substances and conducted urine tests on all visitors.

Of the 212 patrons tested, 81 individuals (49 men and 32 women) initially tested positive for drug abuse. The results highlight the widespread use of illegal substances at the unlicensed venue.

(1/2) Interior Ministry officials raided a pub in Nakhon Pathom province's Sam Phran district on at 3am Sun & found that 81 party goers, 49 men and 32 women, tested positive for drugs.
Revellers desperately tried to flee but were encircled by officers. #Thailand #NakhonPathom pic.twitter.com/7LWbzANEUG

— Khaosod English (@KhaosodEnglish) March 23, 2025

The Neon Pub was found to be operating without a license, serving alcohol outside legal hours, and facilitating the sale and consumption of narcotics. Chaiwat Junthirapong, Director General of the Department of Provincial Administration, who led the raid, stated that the operators blatantly disregarded regulations.

Chaiwat announced that he would recommend the Nakhon Pathom provincial governor to close the pub for five years as a punitive measure. The owners and operators of the venue could also face additional legal consequences, including fines and potential imprisonment.

Local residents have welcomed the crackdown, expressing concerns about the negative impact of such establishments on community safety and youth. However, some have called for more proactive measures to prevent illegal activities rather than relying on reactive raids.

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Authorities are continuing their investigation to identify the sources of the narcotics and any potential connections to larger drug networks. The 81 individuals who tested positive for drugs will face legal proceedings, while the remaining patrons have been released pending further investigation.

Stay tuned for further updates as the investigation progresses.

-Thailand News (TN)