Thailand Launches Sex Worker Crackdown as USS Abraham Lincoln Arrives
Local authorities in the Thai destination of Pattaya say they hope the USS Abraham Lincoln's brief visit will boost tourism.
Thai authorities have intensified a crackdown on sex workers in the popular tourist destination of Pattaya ahead of the arrival of approximately 5,000 U.S. sailors and Marines aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, according to Reuters and local media. Between 40 and 50 individuals were detained during police raids over the weekend. The USS Abraham Lincoln made its long-awaited arrival in eastern Thailand on Wednesday, finally reaching its port after an unprecedented continuous deployment at sea lasting over 200 days.
This extended period without a port call was due to the ship's extended service in the Middle East in support of the U.S. war against Iran, which began in January and continued into February. The carrier will remain in Thailand for four days before returning to its home port in San Diego. Despite prostitution being illegal in Thailand, Pattaya's famous party districts are well-known for their visible sex tourism.
Police chief Anek Srathongyoo acknowledged that while they are making efforts, it is challenging to fully enforce the law and detect such activities. This situation is still unfolding and will be updated as more information becomes available.
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