PHUKET: About 150 police and volunteers raided Phuket's Soi Bangla and surrounding bars last night in one of the largest anti-drugs sweeps seen on Phuket so far.
The surprise checks at six different points in the popular Phuket west coast nightlife capital of Patong from 9pm on were made at the direction of the Interior and Justice Ministries.
Checks were also made on whether bars, clubs and other entertainment venues had opened before gaining the appropriate permits.
Scantily dressed katoeys - who because of their gender are not subject to cultural restrictions on how much flesh they can show - were among those caught up in the raids.
Seven ladboys tested positive for drugs. Others were found to not be registered with Kathu Police Station.
A national crackdown on drugs has already produced one of the largest hauls ever on Phuket and is likely to bring more raids.
The surprise checks at six different points in the popular Phuket west coast nightlife capital of Patong from 9pm on were made at the direction of the Interior and Justice Ministries.
Checks were also made on whether bars, clubs and other entertainment venues had opened before gaining the appropriate permits.
Scantily dressed katoeys - who because of their gender are not subject to cultural restrictions on how much flesh they can show - were among those caught up in the raids.
Seven ladboys tested positive for drugs. Others were found to not be registered with Kathu Police Station.
A national crackdown on drugs has already produced one of the largest hauls ever on Phuket and is likely to bring more raids.
Exaggerating as usual, PW. That's not half-dressed, it's one-tenth dressed.
Posted by Andy on September 16, 2011 11:45