36 Chinese Nationals Detained in Pattaya Drug Party Raid
36 Chinese Nationals Detained in Pattaya Drug Party Raid
PATTAYA, April 9, 2026 — Thai police arrested 36 Chinese nationals during a pre-dawn raid on a suspected drug party in Pattaya, authorities said, as part of ongoing efforts to tighten enforcement in major tourist areas.
The operation took place at around 3:30 a.m. at a four-storey building on Pattaya Third Road in North Pattaya, following a tip-off about alleged drug use at the venue.
More than 40 officers led by Pol Col Anek Sarathongyu, superintendent of Pattaya City Police Station, took part in the raid. The premises, which featured karaoke (KTV) rooms on multiple floors, was occupied by groups of tourists at the time.
Some individuals attempted to flee, but all 36 suspects — both men and women — were detained and taken into custody for further questioning.
Police said no illegal drugs were found during the initial search, suggesting that substances may have been disposed of before officers entered the building.
All detainees are undergoing drug testing, and authorities are also verifying their immigration status to determine whether they entered Thailand legally.
Further charges will depend on the results of the tests and ongoing investigations.
Officials said inspections of entertainment venues in Pattaya will continue, with stricter monitoring expected as authorities seek to maintain public order and safety in one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations.
