Pattaya, a Thai resort city known for its nightlife, is intensifying its crackdown on prostitution in anticipation of the arrival of the USS Abraham Lincoln, an aircraft carrier based in San Diego. The vessel, accompanied by two other Navy ships, is expected to dock near the city on Wednesday, bringing approximately 5,000 sailors and Marines.
Police have increased patrols in beachfront and nightlife areas. Over the weekend, authorities detained an estimated 40 to 50 individuals on suspicion of engaging in prostitution. Pattaya police chief Anek Srathongyoo acknowledged the difficulty in completely eradicating the practice, noting that sex workers can solicit in public spaces.
Prostitution remains illegal in Thailand, despite its visibility in tourist hubs like Pattaya and Bangkok. The heightened enforcement is occurring as local businesses anticipate a significant economic boost from the visiting service members, who will be on shore leave.
The USS Abraham Lincoln departed San Diego in November and was subsequently redirected to the Middle East to support military operations. The carrier has been at sea for over 200 consecutive days, a prolonged deployment that has reportedly contributed to concerns about morale and mental health among the crew, including reports of suicide attempts.
Upon arrival at Laem Chabang, personnel will be granted rest and recuperation time. Shore leave will be staggered to prevent all thousands of service members from descending on Pattaya simultaneously. Pattaya Mayor Poramase Ngampiches estimates that each service member could spend between $30 and $91 daily, depending on their length of stay and accommodation choices. This influx is expected to provide a short-term economic stimulus for the city.
Local nightlife businesses, which have faced a particularly slow year, view the carrier's visit as a source of hope. Lisa Hamilton, president of the Pattaya Nightlife Business Association, stated that the arrival of a US Navy warship was a significant development after a prolonged period of low customer traffic. Pattaya has a long-standing connection with American military personnel, dating back to visits by servicemen during the Vietnam War.
However, the anticipated economic benefits are accompanied by potential risks. Bangkok University associate professor Pipatpong Fakfare warned that a large influx of visitors could increase the likelihood of sexual exploitation and the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. The overall economic impact on Pattaya will also depend on how many personnel choose to remain in the city versus traveling to Bangkok, according to Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, president of the Association of Chonburi Tourism Federation.