The Department of Provincial Administration explained the 'Nakhon Ping Crackdown' operation conducted in Chiang Mai Province after receiving complaints about a large illegal gambling den. Over 100 gamblers were arrested, and more than 2 million baht in cash and chips were seized. The district chief and deputy district chief of Mueang Chiang Mai were summoned to clarify the facts on 21 September 2026 to determine if there was any negligence.
Today (20 Sep 2026), the Department of Provincial Administration, Ministry of Interior, issued a statement explaining the 'Nakhon Ping Crackdown' operation.
The statement noted that as reported on 18 September 2026, Pol.Peer Suwanchawee, Deputy Minister of Interior, led a special task force from the Department of Provincial Administration to Chiang Mai Province to conduct the 'Nakhon Ping Crackdown' operation. The mission targeted illegal gambling dens and influential figures after receiving complaints from residents about a large illegal gambling den causing distress in Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai Province.
The operation resulted in the arrest of over 100 individuals involved, including more than 100 gamblers, of whom 2 were foreigners; 14 organizers, including 8 foreigners; and 4 facilitators. Authorities seized several items as evidence, such as cash and cash-replacement chips valued at over 2 million baht, gambling equipment, financial transaction records, and documents related to venue rental. All evidence was handed over to investigators for legal proceedings.
The director-general of the Department of Provincial Administration ordered the district chief, deputy district chief in charge of administrative affairs, and deputy district chief responsible for security of Mueang Chiang Mai District to report the facts at the department on 21 September 2026. If investigations reveal that officials under the department neglected their duties, which may constitute disciplinary or criminal offenses, the department will take appropriate action according to its authority.