Police arrested 20 gamblers and seized more than THB130,000 in cash on Sunday night after high-rollers were found gambling on the popular betting board game called “shrimp and fish” at a warehouse in Wichit.
More than 15 officials, including police officers led by Wichit Police Chief Col. Nikorn Somsuk and Deputy Chief for Provincial Defence Administration Jiradet Burarak, raided the warehouse, located on Thepanusorn Road at 6:30pm.
Police said that the raid followed a resident reporting that a group of people were gambling inside.
Officials surrounded the area and arrested 16 Thais: 10 men and six women. Four Myanmar nationals were also arrested.
Police seized more than THB130,000, 142 betting tokens, two baskets containing players’ mobile phones as well as written records of bets placed and winning payouts.
“They were concentrating on playing the board game when we arrived,” Col. Nikorn said.
“They panicked and started to run, but we apprehended all of them. Some of the gamblers were still wearing white to mark the Vegetarian Festival,” he said.
None of the people arrested admitted to owning the warehouse gambling den, Col Nikorn noted.
“All 20 were taken to Wichit Police Station to face gambling charges and further questioning,” he said.
Story: The Phuket News
