The raid, led by the Anti-Human Trafficking Division (AHTD) under the CIB, took place at Arther Pub near Saphan Hin, opposite the 4,000-seat Indoor Stadium.
The operation was carried out by officers from the 5th Division of the AHTD in coordination with Phuket City Police, following reports that the venue was serving alcohol to underage patrons.
During the inspection, police found more than 200 customers inside, drinking and dancing to live music. Among them were four minors – two aged 19 and two aged 17 – who were found consuming alcohol, CIB reported.
The venue’s manager, identified only as ‘Mr Bamrungsak’, admitted to being responsible for the establishment. When officers requested to see the venue’s licence, he was unable to produce one, saying the business held only a Category 2 liquor licence.
Police subsequently arrested Mr Bamrungsak and charged him with operating an entertainment venue without a licence, selling alcohol to persons under 20 years of age, and allowing minors to engage in behaviour deemed inappropriate or at risk under the Child Protection Act.
He was taken to Phuket City Police Station for further legal proceedings.
The raid was conducted under the direction of Pol Lt Gen Natthasak Chaowansai, Commissioner of the CIB, with oversight from Pol Maj Gen Wittaya Sriprasertphap, Commander of the AHTD, and Pol Col Alongkot Kochakaew, Superintendent of the 5th AHTD Division, the CIB noted in its report.
Police confirmed the operation formed part of ongoing efforts to crack down on venues violating child protection and entertainment laws.