Two People Arrested at Entertainment Venues on Bangla Road with Shisha and Contraband Seized Worth 600,000 Baht

Patong —

Authorities in Phuket have intensified efforts to regulate entertainment venues across the province, applying equal enforcement standards in all areas, including the popular nightlife hubs of Patong and Bangla Road. This is to balance strict law enforcement with the preservation of the island’s tourism atmosphere.

At 11:30 p.m. on September 7th, Deputy Governor Khetarat Chansilp, acting as security advisor to the Interior Ministry inspected two establishments in Bangla Road and nearby areas. The inspections were prompted by complaints filed through the Damrongtham Center alleging illegal shisha (baraku) sales and services.

Officers seized more than 600,000 baht worth of contraband, including 50 shisha sets, 1.87 kilograms of shisha tobacco, and related equipment. Two individuals identified as venue operators were arrested and charged under customs law and consumer protection regulations, which prohibit the import and sale of shisha and e-cigarette products.

Deputy Governor Khetarat stated that Phuket’s approach is based on the principle of “no discrimination, but context-sensitive enforcement.” He noted that being a major tourist destination does not exempt any area or operator from legal compliance. However, enforcement strategies in Patong and Bangla Road will be carefully timed and tailored to minimize disruption for law-abiding businesses and visitors.