44 Men Arrested at Bangkok Drug Party Raid
In the early hours of Saturday morning, Bangkok police raided an illegal drug-fueled party in the city’s Wang Thonglang district, arresting 44 men—many of whom were found in their underwear and later tested positive for illicit substances.
The operation, led by the Metropolitan Police Bureau, took place around 1:30 a.m. at a three-storey building on Soi Ramkhamhaeng 21. Authorities had received reports of ongoing drug use and suspicious activity at the location, which allegedly catered to LGBTQ clientele.
Upon arrival, officers ordered an immediate halt to all activity and began searching the premises. They discovered crystal methamphetamine—commonly known as “ice”—along with drug injection equipment and various paraphernalia.
The building’s ground floor housed a lounge area furnished with sofas and a karaoke setup. Behind the front counter, police found colorful underwear on display, suggesting the venue’s target clientele. The second and third floors contained about 40 private rooms, which were reportedly used during these parties.
All 44 male attendees, ranging in age from 30 to 60, were detained and subjected to urine testing. Results showed that 27 individuals tested positive for drug use.
According to authorities, the venue had been operating covertly despite prior police raids. Pol Col Jesada Yangnok, chief of Wang Thongha police station, confirmed that the building had a history of illicit activity and had been shut down before, only to resume operations in secret.
A 42-year-old man identified only as Witthaya, who acted as the counter supervisor, told police the establishment charged male guests 250 baht for entry. He claimed the drugs were brought in by guests, not supplied by the venue itself.
Those who tested positive were formally charged with possession of illegal drugs and taken into custody for further legal proceedings. Police also stated they will continue investigating the operators of the facility to determine if additional charges, including drug distribution or operating an unlicensed entertainment venue, apply.
The raid has once again drawn attention to Bangkok’s ongoing struggle with underground nightlife and drug use, especially in venues that attempt to evade law enforcement through private parties and disguised business fronts.
Authorities have vowed to increase surveillance and tighten regulations on similar establishments, particularly those that have been flagged in the past for criminal activity. The Metropolitan Police Bureau emphasized that they will continue conducting surprise inspections in the area to prevent future incidents and ensure public safety.
This latest crackdown serves as a reminder of the persistent challenges in curbing illegal drug use and unlicensed entertainment venues in Bangkok, despite ongoing efforts by the authorities.
