Crackdown on kids in ‘net cafes

PHUKET TOWN: Children under 18 are banned from Internet cafes after 10 pm under a new national law – and parents have been told to keep a closer watch on their offspring. At the Governor’s regular media conference today, Sompong Tiranont, Chief of the Phuket Social Development and Welfare Office, said he had received complaints about children being allowed out late in Internet shops. Some of the shops stayed open until 3 am or 4 am, he said, and there were concerns that children could become involved with gambling and follow the wrong kinds of role model. “I would like to ask Internet shops to close at midnight. After 10 pm, only people over 18 may be allowed to use their services. Parents should keep an eye on their children, too,” K. Sompong added. He said there were about 100 Internet shops in Phuket, adding, “We will visit them and ask for their help.” The penalty for non-compliance with the new rules is a month in jail or a fine of 1,000 baht, or both.