Four Arrested in Soi Kebsup Raid
Authorities in southern Patong have arrested four Thai nationals in connection with an underground gambling operation, following a targeted police raid conducted at a shop on Soi Kebsup, near the southern end of the popular tourist town. According to The Phuket News, the suspects include one 36-year-old man and three women aged 32, 34, and 35, all of whom were caught actively participating in an illegal card game.
The operation, carried out by Patong Police, was the result of a surveillance-driven investigation into reports of covert gambling activities being carried out at the premises. Officers gathered evidence linking the location to a broader network of illegal gambling operations active in the region.
Traditional Card Game at Center of Investigation
The game in question is “Kang cards”, a traditional Thai gambling game frequently associated with unlicensed betting. While it is culturally recognized in many Thai communities, Kang cards is strictly prohibited under national gambling laws, particularly when played for cash or property stakes.
According to the authorities, the game is often used in backroom gambling setups, and this particular instance appeared to involve property-based betting, a serious offense under Thai law.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
The four individuals have been formally charged with:
Colluding to gamble
Gambling for property without a license
These charges fall under Thailand’s strict anti-gambling legislation, which prohibits most forms of betting outside of government-approved lotteries and horse racing events.
All suspects were taken to the Patong Police Station for processing. Police also seized evidence from the location, which is being used as part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities have not yet disclosed whether more arrests are expected but have confirmed that the case is part of a wider crackdown on illicit gambling operations in Phuket.
Authorities Reaffirm Zero-Tolerance Stance
Thai law enforcement continues to uphold a zero-tolerance policy toward illegal gambling, especially in tourism-heavy areas like Patong, where such activities are viewed as both a social and legal risk.
Police have urged the public to report suspicious activity and emphasized their intent to proactively dismantle underground gambling rings that exploit cultural games like Kang cards for unlawful gain.
