Immigration Bureau Investigates Alleged Bribery at Rayong KTV Venues
The Immigration Bureau Commissioner has ordered a 15-day investigation into allegations that immigration officers accepted bribes from unlicensed KTV venues in Rayong.
On October 19, 2026, Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, Police Lieutenant General Noppasil Poolsawat, announced an urgent investigation into claims of corruption involving immigration personnel. This follows a raid by the Department of Provincial Administration on four unlicensed KTV karaoke venues in Pluak Daeng District, Rayong Province, where authorities uncovered evidence of human trafficking.
During the investigation, reports emerged alleging that these venues had been making regular payments to seven different government agencies, including a 10,000-baht bribe allegedly paid to immigration officers. In response, the Immigration Bureau has established a fact-finding committee, with a 15-day deadline to review financial records and CCTV footage. The Bureau is currently coordinating with the Provincial Police Region 2 and the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division to gather evidence and verify the claims.
For residents and visitors, this situation highlights ongoing efforts by Thai authorities to crack down on illegal entertainment venues and associated criminal activities, such as human trafficking. While the investigation is underway, it remains to be confirmed whether the specific allegations against immigration officers are substantiated. The authorities have pledged that if wrongdoing is proven, those involved will face both disciplinary and criminal charges. Further updates are expected once the committee concludes its review.
