Ponphir, Deputy Minister of the Interior, announced the "Ponphir Nakhon Ping Crackdown" operation, raiding two major gambling dens in central Chiang Mai, arresting more than 100 gamblers, and seizing cash and chips totaling over 2 million baht.
On 19 Sep 2026, reporters reported that on 18 Sep at 20:00, Mr. Ponphir Suwannachavee, Deputy Minister of the Interior, announced the results of the "Ponphir Nakhon Ping Crackdown" operation. They simultaneously raided two large 24-hour gambling dens in central Chiang Mai. Joining him were Mr. Ratthaphon Naradisorn, Governor of Chiang Mai; Mr. Boonlue Thamthanaruk, Deputy Governor; Mr. Ronarong Tipsiri, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration; Mr. Singkham Kamyod, Director of the Investigation and Legal Affairs Bureau; Mr. Ruanglak Ruangyangmee, Director of the Office of the Volunteer Defense Corps; along with special operations teams of the Department of Provincial Administration.
Ponphir stated the operation followed orders and policies to regulate society and crack down on influential figures from Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. The focus is to eliminate vice dens, ensure safety of life and property, and restore the image of the tourist city. The Prime Minister emphasized the policy to continue relentless crackdowns and prosecute fully.
"This operation began from complaints by local residents suffering disturbances. The Department of Provincial Administration assigned the Investigation and Legal Affairs Bureau’s undercover team to conduct in-depth investigations, collecting continuous evidence and behavior patterns until officials simultaneously searched two targets: 'Phattharawan Den' in Santitham area on the first floor of Phattharawan Place building, Chang Phueak subdistrict, converted into a large hall offering dice games, fish shooting machines, and baccarat; and 'Sripingmueang Den' in Haiya area at the food center of Kad Wiang Ping, Sripingmueang Road, Haiya subdistrict, where gambling on animal pictures and fish-prawn-crab games was held on large tables."
Ponphir added that physical inspections and management structure checks showed both dens were permanent gambling venues, not temporary or mobile. They had systematic staff and guard shifts covering three shifts daily, dozens of CCTV cameras installed, strict body checks and confiscation of communication devices before entry. Financial services were comprehensive, including QR Code transfers to exchange immediately for chips instead of cash. Seized accounting documents showed the dens operated clandestinely continuously for over two years, with records dating back to 2022.
"During the takeover at the Santitham site, some staff tried to flee through the back of the building and jumped from the second floor, leaving personal belongings behind. In-depth investigation revealed significant links to local influential figures, including a municipal council member involved in recruiting and controlling security guards. During the operation, incoming calls appeared on seized employee phones showing the council member’s name, photo, and position clearly. Lease contracts and receipts were also found naming tenants connected to a location previously raided about two years ago," Ponphir said.
Ponphir continued that overall, authorities arrested over 100 offenders, including Thai and foreign gamblers, 14 organizers (8 foreigners), and 4 facilitators. They seized cash and chips worth over 2 million baht, numerous gambling devices, transaction ledgers, and lease documents. Most staff were Cambodian migrant workers, clearly violating the Gambling Act B.E. 2478 (1935) and the Alien Working Management Act B.E. 2560 (2017).
"Going forward, the administrative officers will gather detailed evidence including CCTV footage, financial records, and forensic proof, and conduct comprehensive questioning of staff and players. The investigation will expand to prosecute den owners, tenants, influential figures, and local politicians involved or supporting the activities. I affirm the Ministry of the Interior will seriously continue cracking down on gambling dens and vice establishments nationwide to restore peace and public confidence," Ponphir concluded.
During the raid, officials seized mobile phones belonging to den staff. While questioning, an incoming call displayed name, position, and photo. Ponphir requested to call back and spoke with the caller, with details to be further investigated by authorities.