Bangkok: "Pholpeer" and "Worrasit" led DOPA SWAT forces in operation "Singha Tames the Black Dragon," raiding 577CLUB, a Chinese-owned pub in the Huai Khwang area. They discovered the establishment had been previously raided but continued to operate. They emphasized the need for vigilance from local and regional authorities.
According to Thai News Agency, the raid took place at 1:30 AM on August 29, 2026, when Mr. Polpeera Suwannachawi, Deputy Minister of Interior, along with Mr. Worasit Liengprasit, and a special task force from the Department of Provincial Administration's Special Operations Unit (DOPA SWAT), descended on 577CLUB on Soi Pracha Uthit 11, Huai Khwang Subdistrict, Huai Khwang District. The operation followed intelligence indicating that the establishment was operating without a valid entertainment license. Key figures in the operation included Mr. Ronnarong Thipsiri, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration; Pol. Lt. Singkham Khamyod, Director of the Investigation and Legal Affairs Division; and Mr. Rueanglak Rueangyami, Director of the Volunteer Defense Corps Command.
The operation intensified when Police Colonel Sornsak Thongmee, the superintendent of Huai Khwang Police Station, and other officers arrived at approximately 2:20 AM. General Peer explained the operation's intent to address complaints of unlicensed entertainment venues in Bangkok and highlighted the potential risks such as fires, which could damage the city's reputation.
The Ministry of Interior had previously received complaints about 577CLUB's continued operation after a prior raid on August 16, 2025. Undercover agents were sent to investigate the business operations, which indicated a Chinese ownership due to the use of payment systems like WeChat and Alipay, and the presence of Chinese staff as MCs. The investigation revealed foreigners working without permits, prompting instructions for further legal examination under the Prime Minister's Office Regulations on Deportation B.E. 2569 (2026).
The operation revealed suspicions about the business's ownership, as the person claiming ownership mentioned a nominee partner, "Joe D.S.," a police officer, who allegedly allowed continued operations post-closure. This contradicted established measures for controlling entertainment venues as stipulated in various regulations, raising questions about the establishment's legality and permits.
Drugs were discovered on the premises, in restrooms, and on tables, as well as in the urine of tourists, alongside e-cigarettes. General Peer expressed disappointment and emphasized the need for vigilance among authorities to prevent exploitation and illicit business conduct that disadvantages Thailand.
Officials began proceedings against individuals involved based on various charges, including operating an entertainment venue without a license, violating the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, and unauthorized work by foreign nationals. Separate actions were taken for narcotics-related offenses, with investigations expanding to trace the source of the narcotics and those involved.