Drunk driving crackdown: Patong police launches bold initiative

An innovative approach to combat drunk driving has been launched by the Patong Police Station in Phuket. Tourists who are unable to drive back to their accommodation due to intoxication can now reach out to local police officers for assistance.

This new measure, aimed at enhancing safety, was announced through a series of posts on the police station’s official Facebook page. The police have pledged to facilitate a taxi service or even offer a ride in a police vehicle to help prevent intoxicated tourists from taking to the wheel.

The police station has already begun to put its plan into action, as evidenced by three reports of officers assisting inebriated tourists to their accommodation. Photos and videos accompanying the Facebook posts demonstrate the Patong Police’s commitment to this initiative.

The issue of drunk driving and safety, in general, has been a recurring concern, particularly with the proposed extension of legal operating hours for entertainment venues until 4am.

The Ministry of Public Health, while supporting the extension in dedicated entertainment zones, suggested in mid-November that venues wishing to extend their operating hours should implement an alcohol breathalyzer test for customers before their departure. If necessary, transportation services should be arranged for the customers.

Combating drunk driving

This proactive approach to tackling drunk driving has been welcomed by the private sector, especially those in the entertainment business. They have pledged to augment measures to ensure safety and security to prevent incidents that could lead to injuries, property damage, or tarnish their reputation.

However, Patong’s aspiration to be a prominent nightlife hub, with six dedicated zones operating until 4am, suffered a blow following a street brawl and shooting incident on Bangla Road. This event, which involved eight men attacking a street tout who retaliated by opening fire, took place just after 2am, marking the end of the current legal operating hours for nightlife venues.

The location of the incident was Soi Lao, a small side street close to numerous entertainment venues and barely 160 metres away from the Bangla Police Box. The location was confirmed by Weerawit Krueasombat, President of the Patong Entertainment Business Association (PEBA).

The skirmish reportedly resulted in several people getting injured, including bystanders who were not involved in the conflict, reported Phuket News.

The Patong Police Station’s new approach to combat drunk driving is a proactive step towards maintaining safety while supporting the entertainment sector’s interests. As this initiative unfolds, it will be interesting to see its impact on the nightlife scene and overall safety in Patong.