Thai police raid school-area claw machines over gambling concerns
Thailand’s city Nakhon Si Thammarat has launched a crackdown on claw machines placed near schools and tutoring centres amid rising worries that these devices encourage gambling-like behaviour among children.
Under Thailand’s Gambling Act B.E. 2478 (1935), claw machines are legally defined as gambling equipment (Appendix B, item 24), placing them in the same category as slot machines. The law prohibits the use of such devices without a license — a rule often ignored by operators near areas frequented by youth.
Police, led by Lieutenant Colonel Narakorn Ladchuay, acting Deputy Superintendent of Nakhon Si Thammarat City Police Station, conducted the raid on 17 May. The operation targeted claw machines located along student walkways and near tutoring centres, especially in areas where minors attend evening classes.
Parents raise concerns
Parents had previously complained that the machines were taking children’s lunch money and fostering addictive behaviour. Many of the seized machines were found without permits or owners, mostly placed behind schools and in suburban communities.
“All machines were impounded and brought to the police station,” authorities said.
When it comes to the prizes inside the claw machines, officials are worried about how good and legal they are. They said many toys might not be safe for children, and some could break copyright rules. The police plan to continue searching for and removing these machines in other areas soon.
Consequences for unauthorised operators
Pol Lt Col Narakorn Iadchuay, deputy superintendent of Tha Sala Police Station, stated, “The machines were being used without authorisation and may be classified as gambling devices under Thai law. Owners who come forward to reclaim the seized machines will face legal action.” Violators can face up to two years in prison, a fine of 2,000 baht, or both.
National crackdown gains momentum
Earlier last month, the government said it is willing to look into problems related to claw machines following recent police crackdowns amid concerns over youth gambling. PM’s Office Minister Jiraporn Sindhuprai said the government welcomes complaints submitted to the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB) if claw machines are found to negatively affect consumers. She added that authorities are monitoring social media for related issues and will take action if necessary.
This follows a series of crackdowns across several provinces. In Nonthaburi’s Bang Yai district, officials found claw machines operating in public spaces like malls and convenience stores without proper ownership details. The machines, which accepted coins and banknotes, were seized and handed over to police.
Bang Yai district chief Surachai Kotbutdee cited the Gambling Act of 1935, which classifies claw machines as gambling devices that could encourage addictive behaviour, especially among youth.
In another incident, Nakhon Nayok police seized 77 machines without licenses. Lawyer Ronnarong Kaewpetch said the machines’ legal status depends on whether they offer guaranteed prizes. He added that claw machines cannot be legally licensed under the Interior Ministry’s anti-gambling policy, and operators must clearly explain how their machines work to avoid prosecution.
He also called for more investigation into how these devices are being imported into Thailand.
