Pattaya-
Following a case in Nakhon Nayok province where police seized 77 coin-operated electric doll claw machines after public complaints about their alleged role in corrupting youth and violating gambling laws, the machines were confiscated without anyone claiming ownership, as previously reported.
On April 24, 2025, associated Pattaya reporters noted a widespread proliferation of electric doll claw machines in Pattaya, Nongprue, Bang Lamung, and Huai Yai areas—collectively Bang Lamung district, which is divided into four police jurisdictions.
These electronic claw machines are scattered across the district, found in shopping malls, gas stations, and even commercial buildings rented for this purpose. Some are elaborately set up as permanent businesses, decorated luxuriously with air-conditioned comfort to attract customers, primarily youths. Some arrive with guardians, while others come alone, raising concerns about young people falling prey to this gambling-like business.
These machines are strategically placed in high-traffic areas near entertainment venues, markets, shopping centers, communities, and alarmingly, close to schools and government offices. Some locations boldly operate with over ten machines, offering enticing promotions such as free coins for liking or following their social media ads. Customers exchanging 100 baht or more for coins earn one point toward a lucky draw for a gold necklace at one shop, greatly appealing to youths, teenagers, and locals.
Some locations attempt to skirt legal issues by posting signs claiming the items inside the machines are only worth 300 baht, achievable by inserting coins or banknotes (10, 20, 50, or 100 baht). Certain setups include dedicated coin-exchange machines, while others display warnings like “This is not a playground or rest area,” noting that damages will be reported to police with CCTV evidence. Despite this, young children continue to flock to these machines enthusiastically.
This situation has sparked widespread suspicion among locals, especially since claw machines are deemed illegal gambling under Item 28, Schedule B of the Gambling Act B.E. 2478 (1935). Operating such machines requires a permit, and violations under Section 12(2) carry penalties of up to two years in prison, a fine of up to 2,000 baht, or both. Yet, in Banglamung district, these machines operate freely in large numbers.
Authorities are urged to investigate, clarify the situation for the public, and curb this cycle of gambling influence in Chonburi province.
TPN Media notes there have been regular crackdowns on electronic claw machines in Pattaya before, but it has been several years.
