A Sudden Transfer of Five Senior Officers
Five senior police officers from Chang Phueak police station have been transferred to inactive posts after being accused of allowing the 89 CLUB Casino, a gambling den, to operate under their watch. The transfer order was issued following a raid on the casino located in the Santitham area of tambon Chang Phueak in Muang district. The casino’s operation violated local regulations and led to an investigation into how it was allowed to function.
The Chiang Mai Provincial Police Chief’s Reaction
Pol Maj Gen Thawatchai Pongwiwattanachai, the Chiang Mai Provincial Police chief, said that since the gambling den was under the jurisdiction of Chang Phueak Police, he ordered the transfer of the five senior officers to inactive positions in the province’s main operations center. To preserve the image of the province, the commander has instructed police stations to bolster measures against illegal activities and crack down on officer misconduct.
Details on the Gambling Dens
A source reported that local administrative officials were informed about gambling activities taking place at two locations: the 89 CLUB Casino and Phattarawan Snooker Club, both located in the Chang Phueak area. These dens offered various gambling options, such as Dragon Tiger card game, Hi-Lo, and Baccarat, drawing in over 100 gamblers daily.
The Raid at 89 CLUB Casino
Ronnarong Tipsiri, an inspector with the Provincial Administration Department, led a team of more than 40 officers, including Chiang Mai Provincial Administrative officials, in raiding the 89 CLUB Casino. The team was comprised of officers from the Investigation and Legal Affairs Bureau and Territorial Defence Volunteers Bureau.
During the raid, it was discovered that the casino could accommodate up to 300 customers with only one exit, and 11 CCTV cameras were installed around the building to monitor gamblers. The use of mobile phones was prohibited inside the premises, with all devices needing to be left at a check-in desk.
Consequences of the Raid
As a result of the raid, 104 people were arrested, including 19 card dealers and croupiers. Authorities also seized 31 cars, 10 motorbikes, cash, and gambling paraphernalia. Those arrested and the seized items were taken to Chang Phueak Police Station, where they were charged with involvement in and the operation of illegal gambling activities.
