Top cop, officers charge down Bangla

PHUKET: A posse of police officers paraded down the island’s party soi Wednesday night in an effort to boost tourist confidence.

The 150-strong group was led down Bangla Road by Phuket Provincial Police Commander Teerapol Thipjaroen to scan the area for any suspicious activities.

“The high season is coming,” said Gen Teerapol. “Christmas and New Year celebrations may attract criminals to our island and we want people to know that we are prepared.”

The parades will last until Sunday, Gen Teerapol told the Phuket Gazette.

“We are patrolling the area to boost crime prevention efforts and ensure the safety of locals, expats and tourists,” added Col Chaiwat Auikam of Patong Police.

— Sukawin Tanthavanich