In the early hours of Sunday morning, Pattaya police carried out a coordinated raid on a popular nightlife venue, leading to the arrest of 12 Chinese men who tested positive for drug use and 20 Vietnamese women working without proper permits. The operation targeted Space Club, a well-known pub in the city, and unfolded over several hours as officers secured the premises and conducted extensive searches.
According to authorities, the raid began at approximately 3 a.m., when law enforcement officials entered the club while members of the media were instructed to remain outside. Witnesses reported that police blocked the entrances and exits while officers moved quickly through the establishment, assessing the situation and identifying potential suspects among the hundreds of patrons inside.
For nearly two hours, police conducted screenings, interviews, and urine tests. Only after these procedures were completed did officials permit the majority of the roughly 200 customers to leave. Most of those released were Chinese tourists, alongside several Thai women who had been present at the venue as guests or employees. Video footage from outside the club showed large crowds filing out slowly under police supervision.
Authorities later confirmed that 12 Chinese men were detained following positive urine tests for illegal drug use. The specific substances detected were not disclosed, but police stated that all individuals who failed the tests would face legal consequences in accordance with Thai narcotics laws. These typically include fines, mandatory rehabilitation, or imprisonment depending on the offense and severity.
In addition to the drug-related arrests, police apprehended 20 Vietnamese women who were found to be working illegally at the venue. Officials reported that the women did not possess valid work permits, a violation of Thailand’s labor regulations. They were taken into custody for further questioning and will likely face charges related to immigration and employment law breaches. Deportation proceedings may follow, depending on the outcome of the investigation.
Authorities emphasized that the raid was part of an ongoing effort to curb illegal activities in Pattaya’s nightlife sector. The city, long known for its entertainment venues and nightlife tourism, has been under renewed scrutiny as police aim to reduce drug use, human trafficking, and unlicensed labor. Officials stated that venues found to be harboring illegal workers or facilitating drug use could face penalties, including temporary closure or license revocation.
No major confrontations or injuries were reported during the operation. Police noted that cooperation from most patrons allowed the raid to proceed smoothly, though the lengthy screening process required the club to remain sealed until all checks were completed.
As police continue their investigation, Space Club may face further inspections or administrative action. Local authorities reiterated their commitment to enforcing regulations and maintaining public safety, warning that additional raids on entertainment venues can be expected in the near future.
