A joint Immigration Police operation in Chon Buri resulted in the arrest of ten individuals at an illegal poker house, following a wider investigation into the illicit sale of nitrous oxide.
As reported by Bangkok Post, the raid was launched after the arrest of a Chinese national identified as Da Hua, who is wanted in China on charges related to the illegal distribution of laughing gas.
Police said a large quantity of nitrous oxide was found at the suspect’s rented residence in Chon Buri on 9 January. Officers examined photographs and GPS data retrieved from his mobile phone, which led investigators to a three-storey property believed to be operating as a rotating poker venue. According to investigators, the gambling operation moved weekly, with participants notified of new locations via social media platforms.
After confirming through surveillance that more than ten individuals regularly gathered at the house to play poker, Immigration Police launched a raid at approximately 2.30am on Saturday. Officers arrested nine foreign nationals, including two Finns, two Danes, three Britons, one German and one Chinese citizen. A Thai organiser, identified only as Chan, was also detained.
Police said players used poker chips which were later exchanged for cash. Chan admitted to coordinating the gambling activities and managing the weekly venue changes.
All those arrested were charged under Thailand’s Gambling Act for participating in illegal gambling. The organiser faces additional charges for facilitating the activity.
Authorities added that investigations remain ongoing, particularly regarding possible links between the gambling network and the suspect’s alleged nitrous oxide distribution activities. The case is part of broader efforts to address underground entertainment venues and illicit substances in the eastern provinces.
Nitrous oxide, or “laughing gas,” is increasingly linked to illicit nightlife and cross-border criminal activity in Thailand
