Authorities in Pattaya recently conducted a raid targeting an alleged base of informal money lending and online gambling tied to a Chinese gang. The operation, which took place at Caplu Villa in Soi Chaiyaphruek 1, Pattaya City, led to the arrest of 20 foreign nationals, along with the seizure of 13 computers and more than 100 mobile phones, according to police reports.
The raid was led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Chatchai Surachetphong, Deputy Commander of Police Region 2, along with Pol. Col. Nawin Thirawit, Superintendent of Pattaya City Police Station, and other senior officials. The team executed a search warrant following a tip-off about Chinese nationals allegedly engaging in online gambling and informal money lending. Three houses within a pool villa complex were targeted during the operation.
In the first house, police found six Chinese men answering calls and conducting financial transactions. A Cambodian woman, believed to be a housekeeper, was also present. The search uncovered over 100 mobile phones and four notebook computers. In the second house, eight Chinese nationals were discovered operating nine computers and multiple mobile phones. In the third house, five Chinese men were located, two of whom were seen attempting to shut down computers as officers entered.
Authorities stated that the three groups appeared to be working in coordination. The first group was allegedly responsible for recruiting participants for online gambling, while the second group facilitated informal loans primarily aimed at other Chinese nationals. The third group, which claimed to be operating a food storage business, raised suspicions, and further investigations are ongoing to confirm the true nature of their activities.
The 20 Chinese nationals, along with one Cambodian maid, were taken into custody. They face charges of working without proper permits, with further investigations underway to determine if additional charges will be filed.
It was reported that several high-ranking officials were present during the raid, overseeing the operation and subsequent arrests. The investigation is expected to progress as more evidence is gathered.
