Daytime boozers beware! RTP on ALL DAY lookout for Songkran DUI offenders in Bangkok. Studies has shown that Thais were getting drunk all day during Songkran. ASEAN NOW



Picture: Siam Rath

 

Police in the Thai capital Bangkok have changed their approach to catching DUI offenders this Songkran holiday, that begins later this week.

 

Motorists may also be lucky to get some chicken essence at checkpoints.

 

Pol Maj-Gen Jirasan Kaewsaeng-ek noted at a ceremony on Monday at the New Southern Bus Station that 12 midnight checkpoints had proved inadequate.

 

Studies has shown that Thais were getting drunk all day during Songkran.

 

So for this year the alcohol and drug checkpoints - nearly 100 of them - would be set up from NOON.

 

A total of 4,000 officers have been mobilized to cover outward bound journeys, 11 big events in the capital and 100 smaller ones and the checkpoints.

 

Picture: Siam Rath

 

Of the 100 checkpoints a few were looking for non-helmet wearing, red light transgressors and people speeding.

 

But nearly 100 were on the lookout for drunk and drugged up drivers, reported Siam Rath.

 

First priority for the moblization plans of the RTP, Land Transport Department and related agencies was to look after the travelling public at Mo Chit, Don Muang airport and the southern terminal.

 

Hundreds have been given tasks at those transport hubs for the outgoing Songkran traffic starting tomorrow and the incoming beginning on Sunday.

 

Picture: Siam Rath

 

Siam Rath's story was accompanied by a picture of police with an unidentified foreigner. This advertised that 100,000 bottles of Brands Chicken Essence would be handed out free at Songkran.

 

The handing out of the chicken essence at checkpoints became a much commented upon thread on Thaivisa prior to the pandemic.