Illegal gambling bust in Thailand leads to arrests

Drone footage helps uncover the den

Officers used a drone to watch a luxury estate in Chon Buri. They saw nearly a dozen people inside, with security cameras guarding the property.

When police raided the house, panic broke out — some tried to escape, but officers detained ten suspects. One Thai national is believed to be the organizer.

Foreign nationals were also arrested — one German, one Chinese, two Finnish, two Danish, and three British citizens. One British suspect also faces charges for overstaying their visa.

Tip from Chinese man led police to the location

The raid followed a tip from a Chinese man who fled China. He was wanted for selling nitrous oxide and admitted taking part in illegal gambling in Thailand.

Authorities said the gambling did not happen in one fixed place. The operation moved homes every week. When police learned the latest location from the tip, they acted quickly.

Cash, chips, and evidence seized

Police took cash and gaming chips from the home. Photos show suspects lying on the floor, with officers standing near card tables.

All involved face charges under Thailand’s Gambling Act. Police are reviewing the evidence and may press further charges against the organizer. Arrest summary

• 10 suspects detained during the raid

• Nationalities: Thai, German, Chinese, Finnish, Danish, British

• One British national faces extra visa-related charges

• Organizer believed to be Thai

Next steps

The arrests show Thailand is stepping up efforts against illegal gambling. Police appear to be watching luxury homes and mobile operations closely.

Authorities are investigating whether the network had other locations or more people. Cash totals and the full scale of the operation have not been revealed.