PATTAYA, Thailand – On the night of May 21, 2025, a major law enforcement operation was carried out along Pattaya’s beach promenade in a coordinated effort to tackle the ongoing issue of prostitution. The operation began at 9:06 PM and was spearheaded by Pol. Col. Anek Sathongyoo, Superintendent of Pattaya City Police Station. He was joined by Pol. Lt. Col. Siriwat Khachamat, Deputy Superintendent, and Pol. Lt. Col. Torlap Tinamat, Inspector of the Tourist Police.
More than 50 officers from multiple agencies took part, including the Pattaya City Police, Tourist Police, Immigration Police, Banglamung District officials, and representatives from the Chonburi Provincial Office of Social Development and Human Security.
The crackdown targeted known hotspots along the beachfront where both women and transgender individuals were allegedly soliciting tourists, particularly under the cover of night and near the city’s iconic coconut trees. The authorities cited repeated complaints and a string of violent incidents connected to these activities, which have negatively impacted Pattaya’s image as a world-class tourist destination.
To ensure efficiency, the operation was split into two specialised teams—one focused on making arrests, the other responsible for containment and surveillance. Officers swept through key areas, detaining over 50 individuals believed to be involved in sex work. However, a few suspects managed to evade capture by fleeing through side alleys.
All detainees were transported to Pattaya City Police Station for identification and record-keeping before being transferred to officials from the Chonburi Provincial Office of Social Development and Human Security. Legal action, including fines, will follow in accordance with Thai law.
Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to restoring public order and preserving the city’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination for international tourists.
