Thailand cracks down on drink-driving
Thailand has unveiled tougher measures to combat drink-driving, with police warning that offenders will face immediate legal action as part of a renewed push to improve road safety.
The Royal Thai Police said there would be no verbal warnings for those found driving under the influence, with offenders facing immediate legal action. Refusing to take a breathalyser test will be treated as an offence equivalent to drink-driving, officers added.
Focus on tourist hotspots
The crackdown will concentrate on major tourist destinations, including Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai and Bangkok, where heavy traffic and late-night alcohol consumption are seen as increasing the risk of accidents.
Police checkpoints and mobile patrols are expected to be stepped up in nightlife districts, beach areas and along major roads linking popular tourist zones.
Police General Samran Nualma, deputy commissioner-general of the Royal Thai Police, said officers nationwide had been instructed to enforce a strict zero-tolerance policy. The measures align with the 2026 fiscal policy set by national police chief Kitrat Phanphet.
Partner Content
‘Immediate legal action’
Pol Gen Samran said drink-driving remains one of the leading causes of serious road accidents in Thailand, contributing to injuries, fatalities and property damage each year. Officers have therefore been directed to act decisively and transparently, with immediate legal proceedings initiated once an offence is detected.
Police Lieutenant General Nithithorn Jintakanon, Commander of Police Education and head of the Traffic Police image enhancement task force, urged both Thai citizens and foreign visitors to follow the principle of not drinking and driving.
He also commended traffic officers across the country for carrying out their duties with patience and professionalism, including in situations where they encounter verbal abuse or physical assault while enforcing the law.
Authorities say the intensified enforcement is intended to deter risky behaviour and reduce the number of alcohol-related crashes, particularly in high-traffic tourist areas.
Related news
Russia boosts domestic wine production as imports plummet
ProWine Tokyo prepares for unprecedented international footprint
