Thai authorities have conducted a significant crackdown on prostitution in Pattaya, detaining dozens ahead of the arrival of approximately 5,000 U.S. sailors and Marines. The police raids resulted in the detention of between 40 and 50 individuals over the weekend, according to reports from Reuters and local media.
The USS Abraham Lincoln arrived in eastern Thailand on Wednesday after a record-setting 200-day continuous at-sea deployment. This deployment had raised concerns among U.S. lawmakers regarding the conditions and mental health of those onboard. Originally rerouted from the South China Sea, the carrier had been deployed in the Middle East since January in support of U.S. actions against Iran.
Sailors and Marines will remain in Thailand for four days before heading back to their home port in San Diego. Pattaya is known for its vibrant nightlife and visible sex tourism, despite prostitution being illegal. Authorities and advocacy groups admit that enforcement is challenging.
Pattaya police chief Anek Srathongyoo expressed the difficulties in fully policing these activities. Authorities conducted inspections of the beach area and other popular spots in the city on August 29, as reported by The Pattaya Mail.
This story is currently developing and updates will be provided.
British Police Arrest Man Suspected of Terror Plot 
Activists Push for Nationwide Ban on Child Marriage in the U.S. 
Investigation into Alleged Incident at Cornell University 
Rising Drone Threats Highlight Vulnerabilities in Moldova’s Airspace Defense 
Bolivia Faces Security Test Amid Unrest 
Incident on FlyDubai Flight Raises Security Concerns