PATTAYA, Thailand – On May 8, 2025, at 7:46 p.m., a joint operation involving over 50 officers from the Pattaya Tourist Police, Pattaya City Police, Chonburi Immigration Office, Chonburi Social Development and Human Security Office, and Pattaya City authorities targeted foreign nationals engaged in alleged illegal prostitution activities along Pattaya’s beachfront.
Led by Pol. Lt. Col. Torlap Tinamat, Pol. Lt. Col. Supharat Meepricha, Pol. Maj. Apichat Jarurak, and Pol. Lt. Col. Suchart Dusadee, the operation aimed to curb behaviors that tarnish Pattaya’s reputation as a global family friendly tourist destination. The crackdown focused on women soliciting tourists in public spaces, violating Section 5 of the law prohibiting prostitution-related activities such as soliciting or harassing passersby.
Officers, both in uniform and plainclothes, conducted surveillance along Pattaya Beach, where suspects were observed loitering near coconut trees, approaching tourists, and offering sexual services. During the operation, authorities apprehended 13 foreign nationals—seven from Uzbekistan and six from Uganda. Some were found to be overstaying their visas, while others held student visas, raising suspicions. Searches of the women’s purses uncovered lubricants and condoms of various sizes, further indicating illicit activities.
All 13 suspects were detained for violating prostitution laws, with two also charged for overstaying their visas. They were handed over to Pattaya City Police for legal proceedings, with visa revocations and deportation processes underway.
Pol. Lt. Col. Torlap Tinamat stated that the operation aligns with the National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kitrat Phunphet’s policy to enhance safety in tourist areas and suppress crimes that harm Thailand’s image. It also follows directives from Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phueak-am, Commander of the Tourist Police, to proactively address issues in key tourist destinations.
“This effort reflects our commitment to maintaining Pattaya’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination,” Pol. Lt. Col. Torlap said. “We will continue proactive measures and work with relevant agencies to ensure Pattaya remains a clean, safe, and friendly city for all.”
Authorities urge the public and tourists to report suspicious activities to the Tourist Police Hotline at 1155, available 24/7.
