Chiang Mai Provincial Police have clarified the issue regarding the Provincial Administration’s raid on two gambling dens, announcing the establishment of a fact-finding committee. They confirmed that no one will be exempt from accountability. It was revealed that the Chang Phueak Police Chief was transferred shortly before retirement after more than 20 gamblers were found, while the Muang Chiang Mai Police Chief escaped transfer as fewer than 10 suspects were detected.
On 20 Sep 2026, the Chiang Mai Provincial Police explained the “Prab Sian Nakorn Ping” operation and announced the formation of a fact-finding committee.
Following the 18 Sep operation where Pol. Maj. Gen. Phonpi Suwannachawi, Deputy Minister of Interior, together with the Department of Provincial Administration’s special task force and police officers, conducted “Prab Sian Nakorn Ping” to raid and act against two large illegal gambling venues in the Chang Phueak and Muang Chiang Mai police precincts, arresting suspects and seizing evidence, the Chiang Mai Provincial Police have taken the situation seriously.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Yuttana Kaenchan, Commander of Chiang Mai Provincial Police, has established a committee to investigate the facts and signed an order transferring the Chang Phueak Police Chief—whose precinct had more suspects than the National Police’s set limit—to serve at the Chiang Mai Provincial Police Operations Center.
He assigned Pol. Col. Chindet Ditae, Deputy Commander of Chiang Mai Provincial Police, as acting Chang Phueak Police Chief to ensure smooth administration and proper investigation. The inquiry will thoroughly and transparently examine all related aspects, including duty performance, area supervision, and other relevant issues, in accordance with applicable regulations and laws, ensuring fairness to all parties.
Chiang Mai Provincial Police affirmed they will not overlook any wrongdoing or negligence. If investigations find any officers involved or derelict in duty, they will be strictly disciplined according to laws, regulations, and National Police orders.
A high-ranking Chiang Mai Provincial Police official revealed that in the raids on two gambling dens, the Muang Chiang Mai Police precinct arrested 10 suspects, while the Chang Phueak precinct apprehended 35 gamblers and organizers—six organizers comprising three Thais and three Cambodians, and 29 players. As a result, only the Chang Phueak Police Chief was transferred for service elsewhere, despite being just days from retirement, in line with National Police procedures. The Muang Chiang Mai Police Chief was spared transfer as the number of suspects did not exceed 10.
Regarding reports of a local politician’s involvement who also contacted the Deputy Interior Minister on the day of the raids, the senior police official said investigators from each jurisdiction have been instructed to gather evidence. If any local politician is found involved, they will be summoned for questioning to proceed accordingly. It is now known that the individual is a municipal council member from a subdistrict municipality within Chiang Mai city.