A Thai resort city began cracking down on prostitution ahead of the arrival of 5,000 U.S. sailors and Marines exhausted from months at sea in the Middle East.
The USS Abraham Lincoln docked near Pattaya, one of Thailand's primary nightlife areas, on Wednesday along with two other naval vessels, The Independent reported.
"We are doing our best, but it is difficult," Pattaya police chief Anek Srathongyoo said Monday of his department's efforts to curb prostitution in the city.
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The police effort involves increased patrols in beachfront and nightlife areas, as well as raids over the weekend in which more than 50 people were arrested on suspicion of prostitution.
Although prostitution is illegal in Thailand, major tourist hubs like Bangkok and Pattaya are well known for sex tourism.
The San Diego–based USS Abraham Lincoln left port in November and was redirected to the Middle East amid the U.S. war with Iran.
However, the prolonged deployment raised concerns amid reports of health issues, deteriorating conditions aboard the warship, and low morale.
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Pattaya Mayor Poramase Ngampiches expressed hope that the influx of American service members would boost the region's economy.
Each service member could spend around $30 to $90 per day, depending on where they stay and for how long, the mayor said.
"When we heard the news that a U.S. Navy warship would be docking in Pattaya, it became a source of hope for us," said Lisa Hamilton, president of the Pattaya Nightlife Business Association.
Pattaya originally grew from a small fishing village into a major tourism hub largely due to U.S. military members seeking rest and relaxation during the Vietnam War.
