Phuket Police Raid Illegal Poker Game at Rawai Villa

Authorities in Phuket carried out a targeted enforcement action against an alleged underground poker operation linked to foreign organizers, highlighting continued scrutiny of illegal gambling activity in Thailand.

Good to Know

• Nine foreign nationals were arrested during a raid on a luxury villa in Rawai.
• Entry to the games required a 20,000 baht buy in and invitations were shared through Instagram and WhatsApp.
• Bets were placed using Thai baht and cryptocurrency, according to police.

As reported by Khaosodenglish, investigation began after officers from Chalong Police Station identified an Instagram account named “Poker Level” that promoted private poker sessions to foreigners. Advertisement, written in Russian, directed interested players to connect through a messaging link before receiving location details.

Authorities said access was restricted to non Thai participants, suggesting an organized effort to run games discreetly within the expatriate community.

Surveillance Led to Raid at Rawai Property

Police received intelligence on February 11 indicating another gathering was scheduled. Officers monitored the villa and observed activity consistent with an active game, including visible lighting and a group seated around a table.

After confirming suspected gambling activity, officers entered the property, searched the premises, and detained nine individuals. Arrested group included seven Russian nationals, one Ukrainian national, and one Kazakh national.

Seized items included cash, playing cards, a poker table, chips assigned cash value, and several electronic devices such as mobile phones and computers.

Digital Evidence Now Part of Expanding Investigation

Investigators plan to analyze confiscated electronics to track communications, payment flows, and possible wider coordination. Authorities aim to determine how games were organized, how funds moved, and whether additional events took place.

Officials stated that wagers involved both local currency and cryptocurrency, adding a digital financial dimension to the case that requires forensic review.

Participants allegedly paid 20,000 baht per session to join the games held inside the villa.

Charges Filed Under Thai Gambling Law

All suspects face charges for organizing gambling for property without permission under Section 12 of the Gambling Act, along with joint participation in illegal gambling activities.

Police transferred the group to investigators for further legal proceedings as the case continues to develop.

Thailand maintains strict laws against most forms of gambling, allowing only limited regulated activities, which often leads to enforcement actions targeting private games and offshore linked operations.

FAQ

Where did the raid take place?

Police conducted the operation at a luxury villa in Rawai, located in Muang district of Phuket.

How did authorities discover the poker games?

Investigators found an Instagram advertisement promoting private sessions and followed digital leads.

Who was arrested?

Nine foreigners were detained, including Russian, Ukrainian, and Kazakh nationals.

What evidence did police seize?

Officers confiscated cash, chips, cards, a poker table, and electronic devices for forensic review.

What laws apply to the case?

Suspects were charged under Section 12 of the Thai Gambling Act for organizing and participating in unauthorized gambling.

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