Letter from Dr Goh Lim Thye, senior lecturer, Department of Economics, Faculty of Business and Economics, Universiti Malaya
BANGKOK: National police chief Kitrat Phanphet has warned revellers to prioritise consent and road safety as Thailand enters the" Seven Dangerous Days " holiday period. The Royal Thai Police had issued a strict code of conduct for the Songkran 2026 festivities, outlining a framework of"3 Do’s and 5 Don’ts" to curb accidents and criminal behaviour.
The measures come as millions of people take to the streets for the traditional water festival, a period historically associated with a surge in road fatalities and public disturbances. Pol Maj Gen Siriwat Deepor, deputy spokesperson for the Royal Thai Police, stated that National Police Chief Pol Gen Kitrat Phanphet is particularly concerned about"risky water-playing behaviours" that may lead to legal violations or the unintentional harassment of others.To promote a"creative and safe" environment, authorities are urging the public to exercise high levels of social awareness:Revellers are advised to assess whether a passerby wishes to participate. Those in work uniforms or carrying electronic devices should generally be avoided.In densely crowded zones, the police recommend using tightly sealed waterproof bags. To prevent"slash-and-grab" thefts, revellers are cautioned against hanging bags loosely around their necks.As the"Seven Dangerous Days" of road travel begin, drivers must inspect their vehicles and ensure they are physically fit for long journeys, taking regular breaks to prevent fatigue-related crashes.The police have also made it clear that certain activities will meet with zero tolerance:Carrying knives, firearms, or even imitation weapons into celebration zones is strictly prohibited to prevent escalations during disputes.The use of high-pressure water guns is banned, as the force can cause permanent eye injuries.Authorities warned that using crowds as a cover for indecent acts or unwanted touching carries a prison sentence of up to 10 years or a 200,000 baht fine.Under the Alcohol Beverage Control Act, drinking inside a vehicle on a public road is illegal for both drivers and passengers.Throwing water at speeding vehicles is prohibited. If such an act leads to a fatal accident, the perpetrator could face a"negligence causing death" charge, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. The Royal Thai Police have activated several 24-hour hotlines for the duration of the festival. Citizens can report crimes via 191 or 1599, while medical emergencies and road accidents should be directed to the 1669 emergency medical service. - The Nation/ANN
National Police Chief Seven Dangerous Days Songkran 2026 Royal Thai Police Risky Water-Playing Behaviours Consent Asset Security Conscious Driving Legal Prohibitions
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
ACS Ipoh alumni pays tribute to three iconsLetter from Dr Goh Lim Thye, senior lecturer, Department of Economics, Faculty of Business and Economics, Universiti Malaya
Read more »
Drowning tragedy highlights need for stricter safety rules, says Lam ThyeLetter from Dr Goh Lim Thye, senior lecturer, Department of Economics, Faculty of Business and Economics, Universiti Malaya
Read more »
How AI helped 1 man (and his brother) build a US$1.8 billion companyLetter from Dr Goh Lim Thye, senior lecturer, Department of Economics, Faculty of Business and Economics, Universiti Malaya
Read more »
'A perfect mission': Artemis II astronauts return to EarthLetter from Dr Goh Lim Thye, senior lecturer, Department of Economics, Faculty of Business and Economics, Universiti Malaya
Read more »
Domestic Trade Ministry seeks Navy support to curb fuel subsidy abuse in SabahLetter from Dr Goh Lim Thye, senior lecturer, Department of Economics, Faculty of Business and Economics, Universiti Malaya
Read more »
Johor eatery raided for siphoning subsidised cooking oil into bottlesLetter from Dr Goh Lim Thye, senior lecturer, Department of Economics, Faculty of Business and Economics, Universiti Malaya
Read more »