Phuket Bar Accused of Human Trafficking

Thai authorities have arrested the owner and two employees of a Rawai bar after receiving information about the exploitation of minors for prostitution.

Phuket, Thailand – The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), through its Anti-Human Trafficking Department (AHTD), has arrested three people following a raid on a popular bar in Rawai.

The operation was carried out in connection with the establishment’s suspected involvement in prostitution involving a 17-year-old girl and a transgender woman. The arrests took place at a retail outlet in Moo 7, Rawai, after an informant reported the provision of sexual services involving minors, according to a CIB report.

The operation was led by Lieutenant Colonel Nattapon Daowiang and officers from Section 5 of the Crime Suppression Department (CSD). Police confirmed the reports, saying the cost was 2,500 Thai baht per person, plus a 500 baht “bar fine”.

During the special operation, an undercover officer posed as a client and paid for the services, after which he signaled the SWAT team.

The police officers detained 50-year-old “Ms. Niracha”, the owner of the bar, as well as 21-year-olds “Mr. Ponchai” and “Mr. Somjai”, who worked at the bar as staff. 5,000 baht in marked banknotes used in the operation were seized as evidence. A 17-year-old girl and a transgender woman who were victims of human trafficking were released from the premises.

The detainees were taken to the Investigation Department of Section 5 of the Crime Suppression Department for further legal proceedings. They will be charged under Thailand’s Anti-Human Trafficking and Juvenile Protection Laws. Details of the investigation are not being disclosed in the interests of the investigation.

The incident highlights the problem of exploitation of vulnerable groups in the entertainment industry and the need to strengthen anti-trafficking efforts, including in popular tourist areas such as Phuket. Thai law enforcement regularly carries out raids and operations to curb illegal activities and protect human rights.