Authorities in Bang Lamung district have dismantled an illegal gambling den that had been operating inside a rented house in a residential neighborhood, taking 31 people into custody and seizing equipment used to run what resembled a small casino.
The raid took place after Bang Lamung district chief Anusak Phiriyom ordered a coordinated operation involving district officials and local police, as reported by Khaosod English. The gambling site was located in Soi Phatthanakan 4, Moo 6, in Nong Prue, inside a house with no street number and surrounded by private homes.
Officers entered to find roughly 30 gamblers crowded around a dealer who was shaking dice and calling out results as players placed bets. Officials said the group was cheering loudly enough to disturb nearby residents.
Inside the air-conditioned room, officers seized cash, betting boards, dice trays, covers, and three CCTV cameras positioned to monitor players. Electronic displays showing dice scores were also set up, giving the operation the look of a compact, well-equipped casino.
When authorities announced themselves, several gamblers attempted to flee, but all were apprehended during the brief chaos.
The operation halted momentarily when a woman in her 50s reported chest discomfort and claimed she had a heart condition. Rescue volunteers were called, and she was transported to a nearby hospital.
According to officials, the dealer told investigators the den had only been operating for about a week. He also claimed the raid occurred because the organizers “forgot to make offerings to local spirits,” which he believed resulted in their misfortune.
All 31 suspects, together with the seized gambling equipment, were transferred to Nong Prue police station for further legal action. Authorities said investigations would continue as part of broader efforts to curb illegal gambling operations across the district.
Thai authorities say short-term gambling houses often operate from rented homes and relocate frequently to avoid detection
