Report Phuket Airport Deploys K-9 Units Ahead of Holiday Travel Surge

[webfact]

Picture courtesy of Phuket International Airport

 

In preparation for an influx of visitors, Phuket International Airport is ramping up security measures with the deployment of K-9 units "Donut" and "Omo."

 

The dynamic duo, from the Srinagarindra Camp's Border Patrol Police, began patrolling on Monday and will remain vigilant until July 16. This step aims to provide extra safety for passengers over the anticipated busy four-day weekend.

 

The long weekend, from Thursday to Sunday, includes Asarnha Bucha Day and Buddhist Lent Day, prompting a significant increase in arrivals.

 

The K-9 units, along with their handlers, have journeyed from Thung Song district to ensure enhanced security. Airport officials assure passengers their safety is a priority as they navigate the bustling terminal.

 

The decision to reinforce security comes on the heels of a security scare on June 25, when a suspicious item was found near the terminal.

 

Though identified as a homemade explosive, police assert it was intended to incite panic rather than inflict harm. Three suspects are currently in custody concerning these incidents across southern Thailand.

 

With safety measures now tightened, authorities aim to maintain a calm atmosphere amidst the holiday rush. Visitors to the island can rest assured, knowing vigilance is at the forefront as they enjoy their travels.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-07-09

 

 

[thesetat]

1 hour ago, webfact said:

With safety measures now tightened, authorities aim to maintain a calm atmosphere amidst the holiday rush. Visitors to the island can rest assured, knowing vigilance is at the forefront as they enjoy their travels.

Hahaha... 

[JoePai]

Free tip - if you want to smuggle your drugs in arrive after July 16   😎

[hotchilli]

10 hours ago, webfact said:

In preparation for an influx of visitors, Phuket International Airport is ramping up security measures with the deployment of K-9 units "Donut" and "Omo."

Sniff them out and ship them out...

[wensiensheng]

7 hours ago, JoePai said:

Free tip - if you want to smuggle your drugs in arrive after July 16   😎

But are they trained drug sniffer dogs?

 

I got the impression from the article that they are more police guard dogs. Trained, but not for sniffing drugs. It’s not quite clear, but the op seems to talk of enhanced security rather than drug smuggling

[jvs]

5 minutes ago, wensiensheng said:

But are they trained drug sniffer dogs?

 

I got the impression from the article that they are more police guard dogs. Trained, but not for sniffing drugs. It’s not quite clear, but the op seems to talk of enhanced security rather than drug smuggling

Labradors as guard dogs? not very likely.Not the right breed for that.

These dogs are trained to detect explosives,there is more need for that in the south for sure.

Most of the drug dogs these days are not really seen by the public anyway.

[wensiensheng]

Just now, jvs said:

Labradors as guard dogs? not very likely.Not the right breed for that.

These dogs are trained to detect explosives,there is more need for that in the south for sure.

Most of the drug dogs these days are not really seen by the public anyway.

True. Maybe explosive sniffers rather than drugs though. The op is all about added security.

[renaissanc]

Dear Drug Traffickers,

Please take note that there are drug-sniffing dogs at Phuket airport as well as at the Bangkok airports. They are beagles. Not the pictured dogs. These dogs can smell a few grams of drugs in a suitcase. Maybe find another profession unless you wish to spend a decade or more in the Bangkok Hilton.

[renaissanc]

38 minutes ago, wensiensheng said:

But are they trained drug sniffer dogs?

 

I got the impression from the article that they are more police guard dogs. Trained, but not for sniffing drugs. It’s not quite clear, but the op seems to talk of enhanced security rather than drug smuggling

Thailand uses beagles for drug-sniffing.

[Kwausie]

Will be interesting to see if much difference in numbers, sure are plenty of Hotel rooms, bar stools and girls waiting.

[jvs]

15 hours ago, renaissanc said:

Thailand uses beagles for drug-sniffing.

Thailand is also using Labradors for drug detection.

I have met some of the dogs and some of the handlers.

There are a few training centers across Thailand.