PATTAYA – A pre-dawn police raid on a Pattaya nightclub resulted in the detention of 12 Chinese tourists and 20 Vietnamese women, amid unusual media restrictions that prevented reporters from documenting the operation. The raid, led by Pol Maj Gen Thitawat Suriyachai, Deputy Commander of Provincial Police Region 2, targeted Chinese-owned Club Pattaya on Soi Third Road in the early hours of November 16th.

Drug arrests made at Vietnamese-only karaoke bar in Nonthaburi

Authorities from multiple agencies sealed the venue during the operation, barring journalists from entering while they conducted inspections inside. Police reported discovering evidence including urine samples that turned purple—indicating possible drug use—and multiple plastic sachets containing a ketamine-like substance scattered across the floor. The 12 Chinese nationals were detained after preliminary drug tests showed positive reactions, while the 20 Vietnamese women were taken into custody for allegedly working without valid permits.

Police raided a Pattaya nightclub at 3:00 a.m. on November 16, arresting 12 Chinese nationals who tested positive for drugs and detaining 20 Vietnamese women working without permits. Officers also found multiple packets of suspected ketamine discarded on the floor. Around 200… pic.twitter.com/EJd7qN61I4

— Khaosod English (@KhaosodEnglish) November 17, 2025

The unusual media blackout during the raid raised questions from reporters accustomed to more transparent venue inspections. Police have provided only minimal information at the scene, promising a comprehensive briefing once evidence analysis and immigration checks are completed.The public awaits further clarification regarding the substances found and the circumstances surrounding the detained individuals.

-Thailand News (TN)