The arrival of 5000 American soldiers triggers a large anti-prostitution operation in Thailand

Between 40 and 50 people suspected of solicitation were arrested in Pattaya during a police operation ahead of the arrival of 5000 American sailors aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier. Over 200 police officers checked the main beach and Second Road, with restrictions imposed on the military regarding access to certain areas and activities. Although prostitution is theoretically banned in Thailand, a legal gray area allows it to persist in certain establishments.