Raids on Pattaya sex workers as USS Abraham Lincoln with 5,000 sailors set to dock

The US Navy aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln sails past Singapore. (AP Photo)The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier is set to dock near Thailand’s Pattaya on Wednesday, bringing nearly 5,000 sailors and Marines to the popular tourist city, as local authorities step up police patrols and crack down on prostitution ahead of the arrival of the US Navy carrier and two accompanying vessels.Thai officials said the sailors will be allowed to rest and recuperate after spending more than 200 days at sea. Shore leave will be staggered, meaning personnel are unlikely to leave the ships all at once.Police have increased patrols around Pattaya's beachfront and nightlife areas and conducted raids over the weekend. Officials said between 40 and 50 people were detained for suspected prostitution.Acc