Police raided a nightclub where they allegedly found 22 revellers having a drug-fuelled party in defiance of a COVID-19 curfew.

Officers arrived after neigbours complained about the noise coming from the venue in Samut Sakhon, central Thailand, on Saturday night (April 11).

They arrested the owner Thanapat Thanbowoncharoen, 29, and 21 others who were allegedly drunk and under the influence of drugs.

One of the arrested party-goers reportedly said: "I knew about the curfew but I still wanted to come here. I used to come here all the time."

Thailand issued an emergency decree last month which bans any large gatherings and a 10pm curfew has also been enforced.

Police arrived at 11pm and also allegedly seized 3.84 grams of ketamine.

Police Colonel Saksri Kaewiam said that all partygoers will be charged for violating curfew while some of them will face drugs charge.

He said: "They were all charged for violating the curfew while some of them will also be charged with drug possession.

"Moreover, we will file a request to shut down the business for five years."

Since recording began, Thailand has declared 2,613 COVID-19 coronavirus cases and 41 deaths. The country has enforced strict measures to combat the pandemic including the banning of passenger flights, curfews, travel bans and alcohol prohibition.