Pattaya- On September 1st, 2024, the Tourist Police and the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) kicked off an exciting new training program to boost the skills of Tourist Police in keeping drugs out of the tourism scene. The event was held at the Wyndham Jomtien Pattaya Hotel, with Pol. Lt. Gen. Phanurat Lakboon, Secretary-General of the ONCB, leading the charge.
Running from September 1st to the 3rd the training saw a total of 220 tourist police officers from 32 stations across the country joining in. The Pattaya News team also attended the meeting.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Phanurat Lakboon stressed the importance of making tourists feel safe and secure, noting that strict law enforcement is key to keeping Thailand’s reputation as a top travel spot. The training aims to give Tourist Police the tools they need to tackle drug issues in tourist areas.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Pueak-am talked about the proactive steps being taken to prevent accidents on land and sea, including random urine drug tests for drivers and boat operators. This move is all about making tourists feel safe and well-looked after, said Saksira.
Mr. Wichian Manarojkit, Banglamung District Chief, assured everyone that the district is ready to work with all sectors to enhance tourist safety in Pattaya and Banglamung. He emphasized that all necessary measures are in place to protect tourists in every way.
After the training attending officers went as a group and conducted random urine tests for speedboat captains, motorcycle taxi drivers, tour bus drivers, and public transportation operators to prevent any incidents and ensure the safety of tourists and locals alike.
There were no immediate reports of any of those tested failing the tests, notes The Pattaya News.
Photos are from The Pattaya News team at the recent Amazing Music Festival of Pattaya Beach.
