Booze cruise: Patong police nab 6 foreigners in drink-drive blitz
Patong police launched their Songkran road safety crackdown in dramatic style last night, collaring six foreign revellers for drink-driving in the early hours, some more than three times over the legal limit.
Officers set up a checkpoint near Loma Circle on Thaweewong Road between 12.30am and 2.30am today, April 11, as part of the nationwide Seven Days road safety campaign, aimed at curbing carnage during Thailand’s rowdiest holiday.
All six suspects, hailing from Oman, the UK, India, and Denmark, Phuket News reported they were found to have exceeded the legal blood alcohol limit of 50 milligrammes per decilitre, police confirmed.
Those caught red-handed were:
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Mr Zahir, 25, from Oman – 88mg%
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Mr Asad, 26, Oman – 192mg%
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Mr Ethan, 25, UK – 66mg%
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Mr Jamie, 25, UK – 95mg%
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Mr Amit, 42, India – 95mg%
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Mr Jesper, 40, Denmark – 80mg%
All six were promptly arrested, charged with driving under the influence, and hauled off for further legal proceedings.
The late-night sting was led by Patong Police Chief Police Colonel Ekkasak Hirasawasdi, with support from senior officers and tourist police, as part of a coordinated push to keep holiday roads safe.
Cops have warned that checkpoints will remain in place throughout Songkran and urged both locals and tourists to “celebrate responsibly” and think twice before getting behind the wheel after a drink.
Phuket police also rolled out their You Drink, We Drive campaign, encouraging partiers to use taxis instead of risking lives. Posters feature handy QR codes linking to major ride-hailing apps available on the island.
On Wednesday, April 9, Phuket officials began efforts to ensure safety during the festival. A major new operation centre has been launched to prevent road and marine accidents, as the island prepares for an influx of tourists and local festivities.
The penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol is an imprisonment for a term not exceeding 1 year and/or a fine from 5,000 to 20,000 baht. Moreover, suspension of driving license for at least six months or license revocation.
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