Phuket Police Raid Chinese-Funded Illegal Casino
Phuket, Thailand — On February 21, 2025, Phuket Provincial Police conducted a raid on an illegal gambling den, arresting 13 Chinese tourists and one Thai national. The 11:00 p. m. operation targeted the Phuket Poker Sport Club (PPSC), a sophisticated underground casino operating in Soi Phun Phon, Talat Nuea subdistrict. The arrests underscore Thailand’s ongoing struggle against illegal gambling operations targeting foreign nationals.
Police Lieutenant General Surapong Thanomjit, Commander of Provincial Police Region 8, stated the raid was part of a broader government crackdown on illegal immigration and businesses run by foreigners, focusing on transnational criminal activity. This operation aligns with the national crime suppression efforts championed by National Police Chief Police General Kittirat Phanphet. The investigation revealed Chinese investors financed the operation, employing Thai management. The Chinese tourists allegedly traveled to Thailand specifically to gamble.
CCTV footage from the PPSC vividly illustrated the operation’s scale. Police seized significant evidence: four poker tables, two fish shooting game machines, five electronic mahjong tables, gambling chips valued at 1,030,000 baht (approximately $30,650 USD), and 32 other pieces of evidence. All seized items and arrested individuals were taken to Phuket City Police Station.
While the arrests represent a significant victory, the investigation continues. Authorities are pursuing leads to identify and apprehend other individuals involved, particularly the Chinese investors. This demonstrates a commitment to dismantling the entire network.
This incident highlights Thailand’s persistent challenge in combating underground gambling. These operations often thrive in locations like rented restaurants, utilizing local Thai collaborators to evade the law. The influx of Chinese tourists seeking illegal gambling activities further complicates the issue.
Simultaneously, a national debate regarding gambling legalization and regulation is gaining momentum. The government is considering proposals for integrated casino resorts and entertainment complexes, though this faces considerable public debate. The tension between stricter enforcement against illegal operations and the potential for a regulated gambling industry presents a complex dilemma for Thai policymakers. The future of gambling in Thailand remains uncertain, with significant implications for the country’s entertainment and tourism sectors.
