Bangkok: Authorities raided a secret pub in Soi 1, Huai Khwang area, and seized several types of drugs. Metropolitan police raided a clandestine drug pub in the Huai Khwang area, disguised as a game arcade, which was packed with people from 4:00 AM to 3:00 PM. They arrested the owner, employees, and tourists, totaling 11 people, and seized several types of narcotics.

According to Thai News Agency, metropolitan police deployed officers to monitor the activities of an entertainment venue, a clandestine drug pub located in a four-story commercial building on Pracha Uthit Road, Huai Khwang district. The storefront was disguised as a game shop. After observing tourists walking out appearing intoxicated, authorities raided the premises with a search warrant. Inside, they found nearly 20 tourists engaged in illicit activities. They seized 224 ecstasy pills, 51.16 grams of crystal meth, 3.83 grams of cocaine, 326.24 grams of ketamine, 19 ketamine pods, 38 e-cigarettes, 91,000 baht in cash, two rings, and a Buddha amulet in a frame resembling gold, totaling approximately 300,000 baht in seized assets. Eleven suspects were arrested: four members of the establishment (including the owner and employees) and seven tourists. All tested positive for narcotics.

Pol. Maj. Gen. Teeradet Thamsuthee, Deputy Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, in charge of drug-related operations, revealed that this case stems from a fire at a famous bar in the Lat Phrao area, which resulted in numerous fatalities. Authorities are expanding their investigation and cracking down on entertainment venues in the area. This led to a report of a pub operating as a "secret pub" or "Secret Bar Soi 1," catering only to regular customers, such as bar hostesses and entertainers who bring their clients or partners there. It operates 24 hours a day and sells various types of drugs, which customers can consume at their tables inside the bar without needing to hide. The pub is heavily tinted with black film, making it impossible to distinguish day from night, resulting in it being packed from 4:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Some customers experience disorientation and sensitivity to light after leaving the bar. Of particular concern is the cramped and enclosed building with only one entrance and exit, no fire escape, and the fact that it operates without a permit. A fire in this case could lead to significant casualties.

During questioning, Mr. Somchai, the owner of the establishment, confessed to operating this clandestine service for approximately 1-2 years. He admitted that the drugs found by the authorities belonged to him, purchased for personal use and to sell to tourists who used the service. Initially, all 11 suspects were taken to Huai Khwang Police Station to face charges including possession of narcotics with intent to sell without permission, possession of psychoactive substances with intent to sell without permission, operating a service establishment without a license, and violating the opening and closing times stipulated in the license, etc. Authorities will continue to crack down on drug distribution and dens, especially service establishments or places that illegally operate for drug sales and consumption. Besides being illegal, these establishments pose a risk to the lives of patrons and the surrounding community.