Patong Police Crackdown on Drink-Driving Begins Amid Songkran Festivities

Picture courtesy of Motorist Thailand

With Songkran festivities in full swing, Patong police have taken a firm stance on road safety, arresting six foreign revelers for drink-driving in a decisive late-night crackdown. The operation took place near Loma Circle on Thaweewong Road between 12:30 am and 2:30 am on April 11, forming a critical part of the Seven Days road safety campaign aimed at reducing accidents during Thailand's most boisterous holiday.

The offenders, from Oman, the UK, India, and Denmark, were found to have blood alcohol levels exceeding the legal limit of 50 milligrams per decilitre, as confirmed by authorities. The individuals arrested included:

• Mr Zahir, 25, Oman – 88mg%
• Mr Asad, 26, Oman – 192mg%
• Mr Ethan, 25, UK – 66mg%
• Mr Jamie, 25, UK – 95mg%
• Mr Amit, 42, India – 95mg%
• Mr Jesper, 40, Denmark – 80mg%

All six were apprehended and charged with driving under the influence, initiating further legal processes. Patong Police Chief, Police Colonel Ekkasak Hirasawasdi, spearheaded the operation supported by senior officers and tourist police, underlining a committed effort to maintain road safety throughout the celebrations.

Checkpoint operations will continue during the Songkran period, with authorities urging both locals and tourists to "celebrate responsibly" and avoid driving after consuming alcohol. To assist in this effort, the Phuket police have launched the You Drink, We Drive campaign, promoting the use of taxis and ride-hailing services instead of personal vehicles. Convenient QR codes linking to major ride-hailing apps are included on posters across the island, encouraging safer travel choices.

Back on April 9, Phuket officials started rolling out enhanced safety measures targeting both road and marine safety, anticipating a surge in tourists and local participants for the Songkran festival. The stakes are high for drivers caught over the limit, facing potential imprisonment for up to one year, fines ranging from 5,000 to 20,000 baht, and the suspension or revocation of driving licenses.

The determined actions by Patong police and supporting bodies aim to safeguard both residents and visitors, ensuring that the spirit of Songkran is celebrated free from the risk of alcohol-related incidents on the roads, reported The Thaiger.