A pub operator in Pattaya has been arrested for alleged involvement in an online gambling operation and drugs.
The arrest of Bone Pub Pattaya owner Nitiphat Chokchaithanaporn, 44, followed a raid on the entertainment venue on April 22.
At the time, police seized some drugs and arrested 22 Thais and Chinese nationals.
The arresting team searched five houses in Phra Tamnak area which were used for operating an online website, Bone1688, and several soldiers were also found on the premises.
Further investigation found that Mr Nitiphat was involved in the online gambling operation.
In addition, the pub owner was also involved in making "happy water", a new type of illegal drug cocktail whose use has become rampant in nightspots.
This cocktail drug is made by mixing other drugs — typically a combination of ecstasy, methamphetamine, diazepam, caffeine and tramadol (a painkiller) — and dissolving the powder in hot water or mixing it with sweetened drinks.
It is popular among pub visitors, particularly Chinese tourists, said the Pattaya police chief.
Mr Nitiphat denied all charges.
