CHIANG RAI, Thailand – The local administration, in collaboration with the police, launched an operation called “Chiang Rai Clear Sky” to raid illegal karaoke establishments in the Mae Suai district. The raids followed reports that some bars were operating unlawfully, allowing minors, including a 13-year-old girl, to work as staff.
At approximately 12:55 AM (January 8), the Governor of Chiang Rai, Chanin Chuchai, and the Provincial Police Chief, along with officers and volunteers, conducted simultaneous searches of two karaoke bars. The first establishment, “Nong Pim Karaoke,” contained several rooms, with six female staff members, four of whom were under 18. The youngest was only 13 years old.
The second establishment, “Kalae Karaoke,” had five rooms, including VIP rooms, and employed 12 women, eight of whom were underage, including two 14-year-olds. Authorities also found evidence of drug use, with burned foil paper and four methamphetamine pills inside the rooms.
Neither establishment could present a valid operating license when requested by the authorities. The operators were charged with illegal business operations, selling alcohol past curfew, promoting inappropriate behavior among minors, and employing child labor. Victims of human trafficking will be separated for further investigation and care.
This crackdown is part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal activities and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
