Rogue riders spark outrage as Phuket police face backlash
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Kamala Police are feeling the heat after a viral video exposed a group of foreign motorcyclists speeding past a checkpoint without stopping. The 1-minute-and-17-second clip, widely shared on platforms like Phuket Hod Jang’s Facebook page, shows reckless riders blatantly ignoring traffic officers on the Patong-Kamala Road.
The video reveals one motorcyclist weaving past officers before accelerating towards Patong. Moments later, other members of the group follow suit, speeding through the checkpoint without hesitation. The footage has sparked a wave of criticism online, with many calling for immediate police action.
“If you encounter this, it’s a big deal. It causes trouble for drivers to the fullest extent,” said the original post on Phuket Hod Jang.
It added that the Kamala Police Chief vowed to scrutinise vehicle documentation more closely and prevent further incidents.
Netizens voiced their frustration, with some pointing to the dangers posed by such behaviour.
“Every day, I wait for these reckless drivers to speed and risk hitting people. The police need to confiscate these vehicles.”
Another user slammed the checkpoint’s lack of resources, stating, “Kamala checkpoint has too few officers. They can’t handle these foreigners.”
The incident has reignited debates around road safety and Phuket’s growing tourist influx, particularly in bustling areas like Patong and Kamala. Critics also blamed the government’s visa-free policy, arguing it contributes to the rising number of reckless foreign drivers, reported The Phuket News.
In response, locals demand a stronger police presence and greater accountability to ensure public safety. The Kamala Police Chief has promised to ramp up enforcement, urging residents to report any instances of dangerous driving. For now, Phuket’s roads remain a battleground between safety and unchecked chaos.
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In similar news, Pattaya’s traffic woes faced a heavy crackdown on October 15 last year, as city officials teamed up with local police, including Deputy Police Inspector Captain Theprot Kasemsuk, to restore order in the bustling Bali Hai area.
The coordinated operation saw tourism police and a rapid response traffic unit join forces to rein in unruly drivers and improperly registered vehicles, particularly targeting rogue Bolt operators.