MAHA SARAKHAM - Eleven pubs and nightspots have been ordered to close for five years for serving alcoholic drinks to underage customers.
Provincial governor Saneh Nonthachot has signed an order closing the establishments after a combined team of police, soldiers and excise officials found them serving alcohol to people below 20 years of age during raids in August.
The 11 pubs and nightspots ordered closed are - Mayomwan, Somthawil Bar, O-liang, Image, Chalerm Krung, Tha Nang, Sudthawil, Play Bar, 20 UP, Rim Thang and De Loft, Thai media reported on Friday. Operators of these venues have 15 days to file an appeal.
The raid was part of an operation to regulate night venues and ensure peace and order in this northeastern province.
There are at least 30 pubs and other entertainment venues located along the sides of Somthawil canal in the municipal area.
The August raid found 11 venues defying an order from the National Council for Peace and Order to enforce new restrictions on alcohol sales.
Any pub or nightclub that allows entry to people aged under 20, or operates after the legal closing time of midnight, will have its licence revoked or be shut down for five years.