yougivemebaby Posted February 10, 2013 Share Posted February 10, 2013 Yes I live in Thailand and love it! BUT Why did I get stopped yesterday by two BIB? I live near Thonglor BTS Soi 36 and was walking back to my place (a block away) from 7-11. It was about 8pm. I had two bags and they asked me many questions and looked quite serious. Why are you in Thailand? Where do you live? Let me look in your bag ( I had a man purse). Why am I being hassled? They were on a motorbike and didn't stop any Thai people. <deleted>? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
teatree Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 They are looking for drugs so that they can extract money from you. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
whistleblower Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 <deleted> is a 'man purse??? Is this a handbag for men??? Maybe he thought you were one of those dodgy ladyboys that hang around there?? 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
n0mad Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I lived in the same Soi as you in MSI tower and never had this issue there. However i did get pulled up once in similar circumstances along Rajadamnoen near Khao San and had the same experience. My Thai friends were horrified to know i let them search me and said i was lucky they didn't plant anything. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
h90 Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 (edited) two of my staff eating outside lunch....one had to do a pee test one they searched the car. My motorbike guy told me that an hour later they still hassled people. War against drugs...the last time they killed 3000 people. Edit: Add that my staff are Thai people.... Edited February 11, 2013 by h90 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
richard_smith237 Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I have read of numerous similar events on ThaiVisa.com... One of the explanations I read of was that it has long been suspected that foreigners deal some drugs in those areas... I question this. A more valid explanation may be that the police officers in this area are more switched on to the fact that plenty of foreigners in these areas are carrying something (i.e. viagra etc) and this is what they are looking for. Not to get the drugs off the street, but to collect the fines. It always appears to be two police officers on a bike who single out Foreign males who are alone... IMO - they are simply on the make. That said - it has also been reported that if you have nothing to hide, are polite and comply you will be on your way within seconds / minutes. There have been know first hand stories of scams or extortion, there have however been a couple bias and paranoid comments that appear to have been picked up while sat on a bar-stool nursing a beer. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
yougivemebaby Posted February 11, 2013 Author Share Posted February 11, 2013 Wow. That's pretty freaky. We're not in kansas anymore! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
yougivemebaby Posted February 11, 2013 Author Share Posted February 11, 2013 two of my staff eating outside lunch....one had to do a pee test one they searched the car. My motorbike guy told me that an hour later they still hassled people. War against drugs...the last time they killed 3000 people. Edit: Add that my staff are Thai people.... I have read of numerous similar events on ThaiVisa.com... One of the explanations I read of was that it has long been suspected that foreigners deal some drugs in those areas... I question this. A more valid explanation may be that the police officers in this area are more switched on to the fact that plenty of foreigners in these areas are carrying something (i.e. viagra etc) and this is what they are looking for. Not to get the drugs off the street, but to collect the fines. It always appears to be two police officers on a bike who single out Foreign males who are alone... IMO - they are simply on the make. That said - it has also been reported that if you have nothing to hide, are polite and comply you will be on your way within seconds / minutes. There have been know first hand stories of scams or extortion, there have however been a couple bias and paranoid comments that appear to have been picked up while sat on a bar-stool nursing a beer. So if I was Thai, I could refuse to be searched? I don't have anything to hide but it's very infringing. Without any reason at all to search me? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
yougivemebaby Posted February 11, 2013 Author Share Posted February 11, 2013 <deleted> is a 'man purse??? Is this a handbag for men??? Maybe he thought you were one of those dodgy ladyboys that hang around there?? Yes it's a handbag. and no i'm not a ladyboy. 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
robblok Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 <deleted> is a 'man purse??? Is this a handbag for men??? Maybe he thought you were one of those dodgy ladyboys that hang around there?? Yes it's a handbag. and no i'm not a ladyboy. You sure act like one But i understand the need for storage. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
richard_smith237 Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 two of my staff eating outside lunch....one had to do a pee test one they searched the car. My motorbike guy told me that an hour later they still hassled people. War against drugs...the last time they killed 3000 people. Edit: Add that my staff are Thai people.... I have read of numerous similar events on ThaiVisa.com... One of the explanations I read of was that it has long been suspected that foreigners deal some drugs in those areas... I question this. A more valid explanation may be that the police officers in this area are more switched on to the fact that plenty of foreigners in these areas are carrying something (i.e. viagra etc) and this is what they are looking for. Not to get the drugs off the street, but to collect the fines. It always appears to be two police officers on a bike who single out Foreign males who are alone... IMO - they are simply on the make. That said - it has also been reported that if you have nothing to hide, are polite and comply you will be on your way within seconds / minutes. There have been know first hand stories of scams or extortion, there have however been a couple bias and paranoid comments that appear to have been picked up while sat on a bar-stool nursing a beer. So if I was Thai, I could refuse to be searched? I don't have anything to hide but it's very infringing. Without any reason at all to search me? It doesn't matter if you are Thai or not.... It is my understanding that If the police have reason to search you they can. However, you can request not to be searched on the street and instead choose to go back to a station with them to be searched there. But, the realities are the Police don't really know their own regulations and its a delicate game to play when you risk denting an ego. It's highly possible that by refusing to submit to an on-the-spot search the situation will escalate . Another point is communication - how are you going to articulate to the police (unless you have fluent Thai) that you refuse to submit to a search in the street, but will be happy to undergo a search at the station ? IMO - its easier to submit to the search. Citizens rights here are not what they are on the West. That said - I was in a taxi some years back and the police stopped it and asked for ID. It was about 3am in a very quiet sub-soi and I felt unsafe (I was also with a friend in the cab). When asked I simply refused to hand over my ID, after a 10 second stand-off the police seemed to just shrug an move along... the next step would've have been difficult and it would have either involved asking the taxi to drive to the police station (which he may or may not have been happy to do), OR it would have involved a phone call to a friend. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
tuky Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I have been stopped whilst in a taxi in that area, I was with my ex-wife and her sister at the time. The ex-wife made sure the cops didn't slip a little something into my pocket or wallet as I was searched. It was a scary thing though and to be honest a little annoying. No way would I have had a man bag on me, this is what Reuters say Malaysia sees as signs of being Gay (true story) http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/09/14/us-malaysia-gay-idUSBRE88D04820120914 The federal government said in March that it is working to curb the "problem" of homosexuality, especially among Muslims who make up over 60 percent of Malaysia's 29 million people. According to a handout issued at a recent seminar, signs of homosexuality in boys may include preferences for tight, light colored clothes and large handbags, local media reported. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
h90 Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 two of my staff eating outside lunch....one had to do a pee test one they searched the car. My motorbike guy told me that an hour later they still hassled people. War against drugs...the last time they killed 3000 people. Edit: Add that my staff are Thai people.... I have read of numerous similar events on ThaiVisa.com... One of the explanations I read of was that it has long been suspected that foreigners deal some drugs in those areas... I question this. A more valid explanation may be that the police officers in this area are more switched on to the fact that plenty of foreigners in these areas are carrying something (i.e. viagra etc) and this is what they are looking for. Not to get the drugs off the street, but to collect the fines. It always appears to be two police officers on a bike who single out Foreign males who are alone... IMO - they are simply on the make. That said - it has also been reported that if you have nothing to hide, are polite and comply you will be on your way within seconds / minutes. There have been know first hand stories of scams or extortion, there have however been a couple bias and paranoid comments that appear to have been picked up while sat on a bar-stool nursing a beer. So if I was Thai, I could refuse to be searched? I don't have anything to hide but it's very infringing. Without any reason at all to search me? No I wanted to point out that it wasn't a anti-farang action by the police... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
arthurwait Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I have been stopped whilst in a taxi in that area, I was with my ex-wife and her sister at the time. The ex-wife made sure the cops didn't slip a little something into my pocket or wallet as I was searched. It was a scary thing though and to be honest a little annoying. No way would I have had a man bag on me, this is what Reuters say Malaysia sees as signs of being Gay (true story) http://www.reuters.c...E88D04820120914 The federal government said in March that it is working to curb the "problem" of homosexuality, especially among Muslims who make up over 60 percent of Malaysia's 29 million people. According to a handout issued at a recent seminar, signs of homosexuality in boys may include preferences for tight, light colored clothes and large handbags, local media reported. Nothing to do with where you like to put your willy then ? 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mrtoad Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 This has been going on for ages, you are not the first and you wont be the last. It seems anywhere from Asoke down Sukhunvit to Thong Lor, these random searches are mad. Often as described by Richard Smith. I haven't ever been searched by the BIB in these areas, but know a number of people who have. As always with dealings with The BIB, it can be delicate and a little bit worrying, if you are out there on your own, as they are not renowned for their honesty. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
varun Posted February 12, 2013 Share Posted February 12, 2013 I used to live in the area around 7 years ago and can confirm this. Usually they would be two on a motorcycle, hovering around Thong Lo Soi 20 leading to Ekamai Soi 23. II also recall being randomly questioned about my passport on Soi 55, a few times, but usally nothing serious. Nothing much you can do about it, except move elsewhere if this continues to bother you. On Nut is generally hassle-free from what I've heard. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
whistleblower Posted February 12, 2013 Share Posted February 12, 2013 <deleted> is a 'man purse??? Is this a handbag for men??? Maybe he thought you were one of those dodgy ladyboys that hang around there?? Yes it's a handbag. and no i'm not a ladyboy. what kinda guy wants a handbag?? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
muythai2013 Posted February 12, 2013 Share Posted February 12, 2013 A man purse. lay off him guys, men need a place to store their make up to. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HardenedSoul Posted February 12, 2013 Share Posted February 12, 2013 I used to get stopped all the time around Asoke where I live but now that I've been in this area for nigh on 5 years, they don't bother me any more. They lurk around the Asoke/Sukhumvit junction and the last time they pulled over my taxi - which was stopping there anyway - the ladies on the foodstall where I buy breakfast after a night on the lash told them to leave me alone as I'm a regular customer. They stop everyone including Thais. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
candypants Posted February 12, 2013 Share Posted February 12, 2013 (edited) it is prtty much exclusive to the Thonglorpolice district. Asoke to Thonglor bordered by klong San Seab and Sukhumvit on either side. I havve never encountered the phenomenon elsewhere, though i am told the Patpong police sometimes oblige, and Lumpini cops may do it but only on sois 3 and 4 Edited February 12, 2013 by candypants Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NewlyMintedThai Posted February 12, 2013 Share Posted February 12, 2013 In Thailand over 25 years now and still waiting for my turn.. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
smokie36 Posted February 12, 2013 Share Posted February 12, 2013 I had a stop and search last month...there were two of us...took less than a minute and we were on our way. This was in the usual spot by Soi 23 and Sukhumvit. No big deal....they are looking for drugs of any kind. No idea if they want money or convictions....nor am I going to find out! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
candypants Posted February 13, 2013 Share Posted February 13, 2013 generally looking for money as they ALWAYS set up near an ATM Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NewlyMintedThai Posted February 13, 2013 Share Posted February 13, 2013 The only reports here are of very quick checks and "thank you, sir". Haven't seen a single one where any money changed hands. Have I missed something? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
candypants Posted February 13, 2013 Share Posted February 13, 2013 The only reports here are of very quick checks and "thank you, sir". Haven't seen a single one where any money changed hands. Have I missed something? i know i fellow who was caught with a little bag o' nonsense -- 20k, and "thank you sir" naturally money only changes hands if you are nicked. I also believe their profile does not include octegenarians Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HeavyDrinker Posted February 13, 2013 Share Posted February 13, 2013 I love the OP's nickname... 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HeijoshinCool Posted February 13, 2013 Share Posted February 13, 2013 Said it before here, find a big local law firm, give them a small retainer, and carry their cards with you. When you are stopped, smile and hand the cops the card, and keep your mouth shut. It's worked for me three times in the last 5 years. Each time they've handed it back with a smile and moved on. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NewlyMintedThai Posted February 13, 2013 Share Posted February 13, 2013 The only reports here are of very quick checks and "thank you, sir". Haven't seen a single one where any money changed hands. Have I missed something? i know i fellow who was caught with a little bag o' nonsense -- 20k, and "thank you sir" naturally money only changes hands if you are nicked. I also believe their profile does not include octegenarians You mean, money only changes hands if you're a druggie and get caught. Got it now. Don't understand the comment about octogenarians. I'm in my forties... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
pampal Posted February 13, 2013 Share Posted February 13, 2013 (edited) Happened to a friend of mine. We were both riding our motorcycles and the cops stopped him. The usual two cops on a motorbike. They searched him and his bike as I stood watching. For some reason they weren't interested in me. We offered them money and they wouldn't take it. We went back to the station(Din Daeng) with them. They wrote a statement and made my friend sign it. After they let him go. One of the cops came outside when we were leaving and gave his mobile number to us. He asked us to call him if we see any suspicious farang in the area. This police stop wasn't about money. BTW this took place on Din Daeng Road near to Ratchada intersection. Reason for Edit: Add Location Edited February 13, 2013 by pampal Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NewlyMintedThai Posted February 13, 2013 Share Posted February 13, 2013 What kind of statement? Why did you offer money if you hadn't done anything wrong? 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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