Bangkok: A committee has been formed to investigate five senior officers at Phra Khanong Police Station following a raid on a pub where minors and drugs were found. The Police Commander has appointed a committee to look into the conduct of these officers after police from the 191 unit discovered a significant number of underage individuals and drugs in the establishment. The pub owner faces charges for negligence in allowing minors under 20 to enter and permitting drug use within the premises.
According to Thai News Agency, the raid occurred at 2:30 AM when police from the 191 emergency response unit, in cooperation with Phra Khanong Police Station, targeted a venue in the Prawet District of Bangkok. Authorities found 65 people, including customers and staff, and conducted identification checks and urine tests. The results revealed that 45 of the patrons were under the age of 20, and eight tested positive for drugs, including six adults and two minors.
The establishment was found to be operating beyond legally permitted hours, selling alcohol, and functioning as a restaurant with modifications to resemble an entertainment venue, all without a license. The authorities have arrested the owner. Pol. Lt. Gen. Siam Boonsom, the Bangkok Metropolitan Police Commissioner, stated that the commander of Metropolitan Police Division 5 has been instructed to form a committee to investigate the facts. A resolution is expected within 2-3 days, and disciplinary action will follow if involvement or negligence is discovered.
It was noted that the police have been collaborating with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and districts to increase inspections of entertainment venues throughout Bangkok nightly. This effort aims to prevent incidents similar to the Beer Garden case at Lat Phrao. The 191 hotline serves as a channel for public complaints, which are then investigated to verify allegations.
The shop owner is under investigation and prosecution with initial charges filed for negligence in allowing minors under 20 years of age to use the services, operating an unlicensed establishment, and possessing narcotics on the premises. The closure of the establishment is currently under consideration.