Three People Arrested in Phuket for Allegedly Running Illegal Entertainment Venues with Underage Workers

Phuket —

Police in Phuket have arrested three individuals after raiding two restaurants that were allegedly operating as unauthorized entertainment venues and employing minors under the age of 18.

The Wichit Police told the Phuket Express that on the night of June 9th they inspected establishments in Wichit suspected of operating illegally and exploiting child labor.

At the first location, a restaurant had officers discover evidence of violations. The manager, identified as Mr. Ji, 41, was taken into custody. He faces charges of operating an entertainment venue without authorization, employing minors under 18 without permission, and encouraging or allowing children to engage in inappropriate behavior or be placed in situations at risk of criminal activity.

A second raid was conducted at another restaurant nearby on Chao Fah East Road. Officers found similar violations and arrested two women, Ms. Pim, 42, and Ms. Ju, 38. Both face charges of jointly operating an unauthorized entertainment venue, employing minors under 18, and facilitating or permitting children to engage in improper conduct or be exposed to criminal risk.

All three suspects were detained and evidence collected for further investigation. The case has been handed over to investigators at Wichit Police Station for prosecution under Thai law.