Pattaya police and social welfare officials detained 25 people during a late-night prostitution crackdown on Pattaya Beach ahead of the expected arrival of around 5,000 US military personnel in Chonburi.
The operation took place on Saturday night, August 29, as authorities stepped up patrols in Pattaya’s main tourist areas ahead of the scheduled visit by the USS Abraham Lincoln.
Pattaya prostitution crackdown targets beach solicitation
The joint operation involved Pattaya police, Tourist Police, Immigration Police and officials from the Chonburi Provincial Office of Social Development and Human Security.
Officers carried out checks along Pattaya Beach, Second Road and other areas where authorities had received reports of suspected solicitation.
A total of 25 people were detained during the operation:
- 18 Thai nationals
- 5 Lao nationals
- 2 Ugandan nationals
Authorities said the operation focused on suspected prostitution and solicitation in public areas, as well as efforts to protect vulnerable people and prevent the exploitation of children.
The detained individuals were taken for further questioning and processing by the relevant authorities.
Crackdown comes before US Navy arrival
The Pattaya prostitution crackdown comes days before the planned arrival of the USS Abraham Lincoln at Laem Chabang.
The US Navy aircraft carrier is expected to visit Thailand from September 2 to September 6, bringing approximately 5,000 sailors and Marines to the area.
The visit is expected to bring a significant increase in American visitors to Pattaya, with local businesses anticipating additional spending from military personnel during their time in the region.
Thai authorities have increased security and public-order preparations ahead of the visit, including closer monitoring of Pattaya’s tourist areas.
Pattaya authorities increase tourist-area patrols
The latest operation highlights the increased attention being given to Pattaya’s beaches and other tourist areas ahead of the US Navy visit.
Authorities have previously carried out similar operations targeting public solicitation and other activities considered harmful to Pattaya’s image as an international tourism destination.
Police and social welfare officials are expected to continue patrols in the days surrounding the arrival of the USS Abraham Lincoln.
For tourists and expats in Pattaya, the operation is another indication of increased police activity in the city’s main tourist zones as authorities prepare for the arrival of thousands of US military personnel.
