Bangkok: The Royal Thai Police has reinforced its "Don't Drink and Drive" initiative for New Year's Eve, with stringent checks planned at entertainment venues and major countdown events. The campaign operates under the slogan: "Check IDs before entry... Check for intoxication before leaving."
According to Thai News Agency, Police General Samran Nualma, the Deputy Commissioner General of the Royal Thai Police and Director of the Road Accident Prevention and Reduction Center for the New Year Festival 2026, has announced that increased efforts are underway to manage traffic and enforce traffic laws, particularly regarding drunk driving. This is due to the large number of people expected to travel and partake in festivities, with the goal of preventing accidents and safeguarding lives and property.
Data from December 30, 2015, the first day of a 7-day intensive enforcement campaign, revealed that 77,898 offenders were apprehended for 10 major offenses, including 3,898 cases of drunk driving. This indicates a significant risk posed by some road users. Thirty-three repeat offenders of drunk driving were identified, facing stricter penalties under the Land Traffic Act B.E. 2522 (1979), which include up to two years of imprisonment, fines ranging from 50,000 to 100,000 baht, license suspension or revocation, and prosecution. First-time offenders, in contrast, face up to one year of imprisonment or fines between 5,000 to 20,000 baht, or both, with the possibility of the court imposing both penalties to discourage future offenses.
The Deputy Commissioner General emphasized that police will conduct rigorous inspections at all entertainment venues and large event sites tonight, ensuring IDs are checked before entry and intoxication levels are assessed before departure. The strict law enforcement aims to protect all citizens and promote safe travel.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Nithithorn Chintakanon, Commander of the Education Division and leader of the working group for enhancing the image of traffic police, appealed to the public to avoid drunk driving, adhere to traffic laws, and contribute to creating a safe environment as a New Year's gift to themselves, their families, and society.