On October 5th, police in Phuket, Thailand, raided a foreign labor camp in the Koh Kaew area, successfully shutting down an illegal cockfighting and gambling operation. Nine individuals (four Thais and five Cambodians) were arrested on the spot, with two fighting cocks, gambling equipment, and 1,160 Thai Baht in gambling money seized. Three of the suspects were also suspected of possessing methamphetamine. The operation was led by Akara Suwatthikul, Director of Phuket's Defense Office, and Deputy Governor Thongchai Rattanadet, with 15 volunteer defense members deployed, targeting long-standing disruptive activities such as illegal cockfighting, gambling, and drug use in the community. Despite Thailand's strict ban on cockfighting, underground activities continue to occur frequently, and the police have expressed their commitment to continue cracking down on these "triple threat" illegal gatherings.
Overview of Law Enforcement Action
Recently, the Phuket police conducted a targeted law enforcement action, successfully raiding an illegal cockfighting and gambling venue in the Koh Kaew area. The operation began at 4 PM on October 5th, led by the Director of the Phuket Defense Office and the Deputy Governor.
This raid was a targeted action following community reports of long-standing illegal activities such as cockfighting, gambling, and drug use that disrupted community order.
Process and Arrest Details
When the law enforcement team arrived at the scene, about 30 people were watching a cockfight. Most fled, but the police successfully detained and arrested nine individuals. The arrested included four Thai nationals and five Cambodian nationals.
The operation experienced some chaos initially, but the officers effectively controlled the situation, ensuring the smooth progress of the operation and the complete collection of evidence.
Seized Items and Evidence
The police seized two cocks used for fighting, gambling mats, a stopwatch, and a total of 1,160 Thai Baht in gambling money. These items are crucial evidence of the illegal gambling activities.
All seized items were meticulously recorded and preserved as evidence, providing significant support for subsequent legal proceedings.
Drug Issues and Additional Charges
Shockingly, during the arrests, the police found that one Thai and two Cambodians were suspected of possessing a Class I drug (methamphetamine). This discovery added a serious dimension to the case, leading to additional drug-related charges.
The presence of drugs indicates that such illegal gatherings often accompany other criminal activities, posing multiple threats to public security.
Background and Community Impact
According to the police, the foreign labor camp had long been a hotspot for illegal activities, severely disrupting the order and living environment of the surrounding community. Nearby residents had repeatedly complained about the chaotic situation and safety hazards in the area.
Illegal cockfighting and gambling activities not only violate the law but often lead to noise, traffic, and public safety issues, severely impacting the normal life of community residents.
Handling of Suspects and Legal Procedures
All arrested suspects and seized evidence have been transferred to the Phuket City Police Station, awaiting further investigation and legal action. The police will charge the suspects based on the collected evidence.
Legal proceedings will be strictly conducted according to Thai laws and regulations, ensuring fair handling of the case and effective enforcement of the law.
Current Status of Cockfighting in Thailand
Although Thailand has long banned cockfighting activities, such underground activities still prevail. In August this year, a champion fighting cock was even sold for 6.5 million Thai Baht (approximately 1.3 million RMB), sparking widespread social discussion.
This phenomenon indicates that despite clear legal regulations, traditional cultural customs and economic interests make it difficult to fully enforce the ban.
Police Statement and Future Actions
The Phuket police remind the public that these "triple threat" illegal gatherings of cockfighting, gambling, and drug use not only disrupt public order but can also become hotbeds for more crimes.
The police stated that they would continue to crack down on similar activities, strengthen patrols and surveillance, and ensure community safety and the dignity of the law.
Social Response and Public Awareness
The law enforcement action received positive feedback from the local community. Many residents supported the decisive action taken by the police, hoping it would improve the area's security environment.
The event also raised public awareness of the dangers of illegal cockfighting and gambling activities, enhancing the legal consciousness and willingness to report among community residents.
