19 Indian Nationals Arrested in Pattaya for Illegal Online Sales
Thai authorities have arrested 19 Indian nationals in Pattaya for allegedly operating an illegal online business selling sexual enhancement drugs and adult products without proper authorization. The arrests followed a targeted investigation into suspicious foreign-run operations in Chon Buri province.
The Immigration Bureau announced the arrests during a press conference held at its headquarters in the Mueang Thong Thani area of Pak Kret district, Nonthaburi. Officials said the operation was part of a broader effort to crack down on foreign nationals abusing visa privileges to run unlawful businesses in Thailand.
According to Deputy Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, Pol Lt Gen Phanthana Nuchanart, investigation teams from Immigration Division 3, working alongside Chon Buri Immigration Police, identified a rented luxury house in the Nong Prue sub-district of Bang Lamung district, Pattaya. The property was allegedly being used as a base for an illegal online operation.
Surveillance and background checks revealed that all individuals involved were Indian nationals. Investigators found that the group had set up and managed a website offering sexual enhancement drugs and sex toys for sale, despite lacking the required licenses and legal permission to conduct such business activities in Thailand. Authorities said the website had been active for approximately three months and had attracted a significant number of customers, particularly women.
Once sufficient evidence had been gathered, police raided the property. During the operation, officers arrested all 19 suspects at the scene. Among them was a 40-year-old man identified as Sunil, who police believe acted as the group’s leader and main coordinator.
A search of the house led to the seizure of substantial evidence, including six computers, 21 mobile phones, various sexual enhancement drugs, and a large number of adult products. Officials said the seized items would be examined further to support the ongoing legal case.
During questioning, Sunil reportedly admitted that he and the other suspects had entered Thailand under the visa-free scheme. He claimed the business was owned by another Indian national named Manit, who is currently living in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Sunil told investigators that he and the others were paid about 9,000 baht per month to manage the website and deliver products to customers within Thailand.
Immigration officers charged all 19 suspects with multiple offenses, including overstaying, working without a valid work permit, and operating a business while holding only temporary permission to stay in the Kingdom. Authorities emphasized that such violations pose serious legal consequences and undermine Thailand’s immigration and labor regulations.
The suspects were taken to Nong Prue Police Station for further legal proceedings. After the process is completed, immigration officials confirmed that all individuals will be deported from Thailand in accordance with the law.
