PATTAYA, THAILAND – Police detained 32 foreign nationals after a large-scale raid at the Space Club in central Pattaya early Sunday morning.
The 3 a.m. operation, led by senior officers from the Pattaya Police Station, involved dozens of uniformed and plainclothes officers surrounding the club before entering to conduct checks on approximately 200 customers.
Drug Tests Identify Twelve Offenders
Authorities spent over two hours administering urine tests to every patron inside the venue. The results confirmed that twelve Chinese men had consumed illegal substances. Officers reported that no drugs were physically recovered from the premises despite thorough searches.
“Most of them were Chinese tourists, along with several Thai women,”
said a police spokesperson.
The suspects were taken into custody for further questioning and may face jail terms and substantial fines under Thailand’s narcotics laws.
Twenty Vietnamese Women Found Working Illegally
During the inspection, police also discovered twenty Vietnamese women who were reportedly working at the club without valid employment or residence documents. The women were detained for violating Thai immigration and labor regulations.
“They had no legal residence or work permits,”
said an investigator.
Officials initiated deportation procedures, and the club management could face license suspension or closure pending further review by local authorities in Chonburi Province.
Authorities Signal Ongoing Crackdown
Police Colonel Somchai Rattanakorn stated that Sunday’s raid formed part of a wider campaign to restore public confidence in the resort city’s nightlife sector. The measures aim to counter repeated reports of drug use and unlicensed labor in entertainment venues.
As of 17 November 2025, the detainees remained in police custody at the Pattaya City Station, awaiting court hearings and immigration processing.
Key Developments from the Operation
- 12 Chinese men tested positive for illegal drugs
- 20 Vietnamese women arrested for working without permits
- Club owner could lose operational license
- 200 patrons screened during early morning raid
- Police emphasize continued inspections across Chonburi Province
The Bangkok Post reported that local officials aim to strengthen enforcement during the high tourist season, underscoring that Pattaya’s image as a global destination depends on strict compliance with national law.