Illegal gatherings could face hefty 2-year imprisonment or 40,000-baht fine, Thai police warn

PHOTO: iLaw

National –

The Royal Thai Police on Monday, August 8th, warned the public of large gatherings and mingling as they could face 2 years of imprisonment or a fine of 40,000 baht for violating the regulations to prevent Covid-19 spread.

Police Deputy Spokesman Krissana Pattanacharoen revealed that Commissioner Suwat Chaengyodsuk instructed the official agencies nationwide to inspect high-risk areas and monitor activities that include large gatherings.

If found, the authorities could prohibit such activities if they did not have permission from the Bangkok governor, provincial governors, or the provincial administrations, according to the government’s recent issue of prohibiting assembly and large gatherings and mingling that causes Covid-19.

This includes peaceful gatherings of pro-democracy demonstrators, the deputy spokesperson added. However, the demonstrations must be notified and must be approved by the BMA or the government officials, starting this August.

If not, the organizers could be charged with violating the Public Administration in Emergency Situations Act with a maximum fine of 2-year imprisonment and/or a fine of 40,000 baht. Despite this, Krissana insisted the rule was not designed specifically to curb freedom of speech or protests but rather to ensure everyone was healthy and to stop Covid.

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Nop Meechukhun
National News Writer at The Pattaya News from September 2020 to October, 2022. Born and raised in Bangkok, Nop enjoys telling stories of her hometown through her words and pictures. Her educational experience in the United States and her passion for journalism have shaped her genuine interests in society, politics, education, culture, and art.