Police detained 25 people in Pattaya during a crackdown on suspected prostitution on August 29, as authorities prepared for an expected visit by around 5,000 US military personnel in early September.
The operation involved more than 200 police officers and social workers, who conducted checks along Pattaya Beach, Second Road and in other public areas identified as locations where solicitation was suspected to occur.
Authorities said the operation targeted individuals allegedly approaching tourists, soliciting customers or loitering for prostitution-related purposes. The enforcement effort covered several parts of the city popular with international visitors.
Of those detained, 18 were Thai nationals, five were Laotian nationals and two were Ugandans. All 25 were taken for legal processing, with officials saying the proceedings included fines under applicable legislation.
Authorities noted that some offences previously carrying criminal penalties are now covered by the 2022 law allowing fines in place of criminal punishment. Payments imposed under those provisions are not classified as criminal penalties.
The Chon Buri Provincial Social Development and Human Security Office said the behaviour targeted during the operation could disrupt public order and damage Pattaya’s image as a major international tourism destination.
Officials said the crackdown also served as a reminder that prostitution remains illegal in Thailand, despite Pattaya’s longstanding reputation for its nightlife and sex industry.
The operation comes ahead of a planned port call by approximately 5,000 US military personnel, who are expected to arrive in early September after completing missions in the Middle East.
