The Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration ordered the district chief, district clerks, head of administrative affairs, and security district clerk of Chiang Mai City to clarify the facts on 21 September regarding the “Nakhon Ping Crackdown” operation. If negligence in allowing a large illegal gambling den is found, disciplinary and criminal actions will be taken immediately.
On 20 September 2026, reporters reported that the Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA) under the Ministry of Interior issued a statement regarding the “Nakhon Ping Crackdown” operation. It stated that on 18 September 2026, Mr. Phonpee Suwanchawi, Deputy Minister of Interior, led a special operations team from DOPA to Chiang Mai Province to carry out the “Nakhon Ping Crackdown” targeting illegal gambling dens and influential figures.
Following complaints from residents about the illegal operation of a large gambling den causing distress in Chiang Mai City district, authorities arrested more than 100 involved individuals. These included over 100 gamblers, among them 2 foreigners; 14 gambling organizers, including 8 foreigners; and 4 facilitators. Seized evidence included cash, gambling chips valued over 2 million baht, gambling equipment, financial records, and documents related to venue rental. The case was forwarded to prosecutors for legal action.
The Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration has ordered the district chief of Chiang Mai City, the head of administrative affairs, and the security district clerk to provide factual explanations at the department on 21 September 2026. If it is proven that officials neglected their duties in this matter, warranting disciplinary or criminal charges, the department will proceed according to its authority.