5,000 US sailors given sex work warning after aircraft carrier docks in Pattaya

The Thai resort of Pattaya is bracing itself for the arrival of thousands of sailors from the USS Abraham Lincoln.

The multi-billion-pound vessel has made headlines since its deployment in the Middle East after the escalation of the US war with Iran.

At first it was pictures taken by sailors allegedly showing the meagre meals being served to them while in the Strait of Hormuz, where the vessel has spent months.

And now both concern and excitement are growing over the aircraft carrier’s upcoming pit stop in Pattaya this week.

It prompted officials to issue a reminder about the country’s laws regarding sex work and marijuana use.

Police carried out raids and extra patrols near the famous Pattaya beach and party neighbourhood, leading to up to 50 arrests for suspected prostitution.

But the visit has also sparked hopes of an economic boost to the city, where banners welcoming the American military personnel have appeared.

USS Abraham Lincoln is on its way back to the US after the lengthy deployment, and it is expected to dock in Pattaya City on Wednesday.

Despite the much-awaited visit, some restrictions have been put in place, and the city’s police chief warned that if the military personnel break Thai law, they will be prosecuted.

Pattaya’s mayor Poramet Ngampichet said he met with American officials, and they agreed to ban recreational activities like parasailing and cannabis use.

Medical cannabis was legalised in Thailand four years ago and dispensaries are common. Generally, the country has strict laws against drug use, possession and trafficking, with serious cases punishable by death.

Sex work is illegal in Thailand, including open solicitation for prostitution.

Poramet said: ‘For Pattaya to be seen as an important vacation spot is something that we have aimed for.

‘We welcome more visits of the troops in the future, whether for a drill or a vacation, before they go back to the U.S.’

Sailors have spent over 250 days on board the carrier without going on land or seeing their families, a record for any US military vessel.

Reports have emerged claiming that several personnel have attempted to jump overboard due to poor conditions and mental health pressures.

Family members claimed their military spouses had stopped an attempt to jump overboard before dragging a colleague back on board.

Pete Hegseth, the defence secretary, has previously labelled the claims as ‘more fake news.’

A US Navy official told the Guardian that they are aware that ‘extended deployments place a significant strain on our service members and their families, and we are grateful for the resilience and sacrifices they make.’

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