Lopburi Police Arrest Woman for Running Illegal Karaoke Bar and Exploiting Minor
Lopburi, Thailand – Police have arrested a 50-year-old woman, Udomrat, for operating an unlicensed karaoke bar and allegedly facilitating underage prostitution. The arrest took place on August 2 following a tip-off about illegal activities at the establishment located on Phahonyothin Road in Nong Muang district.
Undercover Operation Exposes Illegal Activities
The operation was led by Police Major General Songkrot Krikkriya, who directed Police Colonel Warit Pathumarak and Police Lieutenant Colonel Supoj Thongma-eng to conduct a sting. Undercover officers posed as customers to gather evidence before making the arrest.
During the raid, officers found:
- 2,000 baht in marked bills (used in the undercover transaction)
- A condom on a bed, serving as evidence of sexual activity
- The 16-year-old victim, identified only as “A,” who was allegedly being exploited
Suspect Admits to a Decade of Illegal Operations
Udomrat reportedly confessed to running the unlicensed karaoke bar for 10 years, offering companionship services to customers. She allegedly arranged sexual services for clients with the underage girl, charging 2,000 baht per session and keeping 200 baht as commission.
Police charged her with:
✔ Human trafficking (under Thailand’s Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act)
✔ Exploiting a minor for prostitution
✔ Operating an illegal entertainment venue
She was transferred to Division 2 of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division for further legal proceedings.
Authorities Crack Down on Human Trafficking
This case highlights ongoing efforts by Thai police to combat human trafficking and underage exploitation. Police Major General Songkrot emphasized that such operations will continue to target illegal establishments exploiting vulnerable individuals.
Public Reaction
Local residents expressed shock, unaware that the bar was involved in illegal activities. Activists have called for stricter enforcement of entertainment venue regulations to prevent similar crimes.
What’s Next?
Udomrat faces severe penalties if convicted, including imprisonment and hefty fines. The victim has been placed under protective custody, and authorities are investigating possible connections to larger trafficking networks.
This arrest serves as a warning to other illicit operators: law enforcement is watching, and exploitation will not be tolerated.
