Slim Cops Rewarded

[george]

Slim cops rewarded

BANGKOK: -- All but one of the 83 traffic policemen who finished a two-month weight loss programme yesterday have slimmed down and pocketed bonuses for their efforts.

The champion dieter was Sr Sgt-Major Somnuek Chuenjaroen, of the Suwintawong traffic police precinct, who shed 15.5 kilos. The biggest waste size reduction was by Lance-Corporal Siri Yuangyai, of Bang Yi Rua traffic police precinct, who managed to trim 8.5 inches from his waistline.

The “smart police” programme began on June 21 after the Metropolitan Police Commission was told of the risk of heart disorders, diabetes and high blood pressure from obesity.

Metropolitan police commissioner Lt-General Pansiri Prapawat conferred plaques on the participants and Bt3,000 in bonuses to the officers who managed to lose more than 10kg. Those who shed more than 5kg but less than 10kg received Bt1,000 each.

On average, the 82 officers lost 6.8kg and cut 4.4 inches from their waistlines.

--The Nation 2005-08-30