The Phuket Provincial Administration Special Operations Unit moved in on a migrant worker camp in Moo 4, Koh Kaew, at 4pm on Sunday (Oct 5) following complaints of illegal cockfighting, gambling and drug use disturbing the local community.
The operation was led on the ground by Phuket Provincial Defence Office Chief Akara Suwatthikul, Assistant Governor Thongchai Rattanadet and 15 members of the Volunteer Defense Corps (OrSor).
Officers arrived to find more than 30 people engaged in illegal cockfighting. Most fled the scene, but nine men ‒ four Thai nationals and five Cambodian nationals ‒ were apprehended.
Seized at the scene were two fighting cocks, a set of cushions used to form a cockfighting ring, a stopwatch and B1,160 in cash.
All nine suspects were charged with illegal gambling and cockfighting. In addition, one Thai national and two Cambodian nationals were charged with illegal possession of a Category 1 narcotic (methamphetamine).
The suspects and evidence were handed over to Phuket City Police for further legal proceedings.