Two Phuket nightclubs within the Kathu district have been raided by officers from the Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA) and the Volunteer Defense Corps (OrSor). The clubs, the Ratree Club and Mahanakorn Phuket have been accused of late trading, public disturbance, serving alcohol to minors, and operating with out proper permits.
The raids were carried out early this morning after a plain-clothes officer confirmed the allegations. Residents had filed complaints about the venues staying open late and enjoying loud music, which prevented them from sleeping. Both clubs often hosted hundreds of party-goers throughout the evening, serving food and alcohol into the early hours, including underage customers, reported Phuket News.
The Ratree Club stayed open till 4am, whereas Mahanakorn Phuket remained open until 6am. After the Ratree Club closed, patrons would cross the highway to Mahanakorn Phuket, according to the DOPA report. The police undercover teams secured the premises around 3.30am, with many revellers making an attempt to flee but ultimately being caught by officers who had encircled the venues. Some 10 minors aged between 17 and 19 had been taken into custody in the course of the raids.
The DOPA reported submitting expenses in opposition to the owners of the two bars. The proprietor of Mahanakorn Phuket faced charges of working an entertainment venue and not utilizing a allow, selling alcoholic beverages during restricted hours, selling alcoholic beverages to minors, and inspiring youths to behave inappropriately.
The owner of Ratree Club was charged with operating an entertainment venue and not using a allow and selling alcoholic beverages throughout restricted hours.
The DOPA report acknowledged that the cases could be reported to Phuket Governor Narong Woonciew with a request to have the venues ordered closed for 5 years, in accordance with National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) direct order No. 22/2558.
Approved -General Narong Thipsiri instructed officers to crack down on leisure venues working illegally, particularly focusing on people who::