Revved up: Phuket police crackdown on illegal street racing

Phuket City police swooped on illegal street racers in the early hours of this morning, targeting the notorious Saphan Hin area and seizing five motorcycles in a swift crackdown.

The high-octane drama unfolded at 12.45am, today, October 7, after eagle-eyed officers spotted online chatter about the underground racing scene on local social media channels. Their prompt action led to the arrest of five racers, along with the confiscation of their bikes, delivering a blow to the risky street antics, reported Phuket News.

Police remain tight-lipped about the identities of those apprehended, but it is believed the culprits are thrill-seeking youths, said a spokesperson.

“The offenders’ details have been recorded, and authorities are considering further legal action.”

With the heat now on the illegal racing circuit, authorities are ramping up efforts to rid the island of this perilous pastime. They are urging the public to be vigilant and report any further racing activities as they strive to keep Phuket’s streets safe for all.

In related news, police in Hat Yai conducted a late-night operation to apprehend a motorcycle racing gang, seizing 35 motorcycles and detaining 40 young individuals for profiling and training, with strict warnings against future gatherings.

Hat Yai police, led by Police Colonel Phum Banthip, Deputy Police Superintendent Adinan Wongmatthong, and Police Lieutenant Colonel Thatchanon Kaewchan, executed a planned crackdown on a group of teenagers frequently involved in illegal motorcycle racing. These gatherings, typically occurring from yesterday, September 7, into this morning, had been causing significant disturbances to locals.

In other news, police in Bang Khen intercepted a group of motorcyclists who had arranged a street race via Facebook, performing dangerous stunts on Ram Inthra Road.

On September 28, the police received a report about a group of teenagers gathering to race motorcycles on Ram Inthra Road. Around 2am, officers arrived at Soi Ram Inthra 14 and found the group engaging in reckless behaviour, including wheelies. The riders attempted to flee, but the police managed to apprehend 22 year old Adisak, along with his cream-coloured Honda Lead motorcycle without a license plate.