The Chiang Mai City Police Chief has ordered firm legal action on all charges against a notorious karaoke bar for overcharging tourists, with a five-hour stay costing upwards of 100,000 baht. Evidence is being gathered to propose a five-year closure to the Chiang Mai Governor. Authorities stressed that enforcement has been ongoing in cooperation with tourism police.
Following reports that an English tourist was overcharged by a karaoke bar in downtown Chiang Mai, the tourist filed a complaint with the Chiang Mai City Police on 8 July 2026, as previously reported.(Chiang Mai again: Notorious karaoke bar charges two Englishmen 150,000 baht for one night)
On 15 July 2026, Pol. Lt. Gen. Kritthaphon Yisakorn, Commander of Region 5 Police, and Pol. Maj. Gen. Yuttana Kaenjan, Chiang Mai Provincial Police Commander, expressed concern over the incident and ordered Chiang Mai City Police to expedite fact-finding and strictly prosecute all involved, citing damage to Chiang Mai’s tourism image and public interest.
Pol. Col. Pratthaya Thisala, Chiang Mai City Police Chief, instructed Deputy Superintendent Pol. Lt. Tatthavee Danpitaktakun, Prevention and Suppression Division, Pol. Lt. Wisanu Nuanmusid, and relevant officers to promptly investigate and summon the implicated establishment for questioning.
During the inquiry, the establishment agreed to fully compensate the foreign tourist, who was satisfied with the resolution and chose not to press charges.
Police investigations found evidence of violations under the law, leading to formal charges being filed.
1. Operating a service venue without official authorization.
2. Selling alcoholic beverages beyond legally permitted hours.
3. A recommendation to order the closure of the establishment for five years.
Pol. Col. Pratthaya Thisala stated that Chiang Mai City Police, in collaboration with tourism police, have consistently enforced regulations and held monthly meetings with service operators to ensure lawful business operations. They emphasize transparent, fair pricing and prohibit exploitation or excessive charges to protect Chiang Mai’s tourism reputation. However, violations persist, necessitating strict legal measures to set an example.
Regarding tuk-tuk services, Chiang Mai City Police will organize and regulate tuk-tuk drivers and associations through meetings to ensure proper conduct, prohibiting solicitation that leads tourists to venues without consent. Authorities will coordinate with all sectors to enhance safety confidence and promote Chiang Mai’s positive image as an international tourist city.