Thailand issues prostitution warning as 5,000 US sailors arrive after 200 days at sea…

Authorities in the Thai resort city of Pattaya have launched a crackdown on prostitution ahead of the USS Abraham Lincoln’s arrival on Wednesday, carrying roughly 5,000 sailors and Marines after over 200 days at sea.

Police have ramped up patrols around the beachfront and nightlife district following weekend raids that saw 40 to 50 people detained for suspected prostitution.

Pattaya police chief Anek Srathongyoo acknowledged the difficulty of the task, noting that sex workers could solicit without authorities’ knowledge, The Independent reports.

While local officials hope the visit will boost a slow tourism season, experts have flagged health and exploitation risks.