Bangkok police to end random tourist searches after backlash
Bangkok police have been instructed to end the random stop-and-search policy of tourists following a number of complaints last year.
Police superintendent Khajohnpong Jitpakpoom said random searches will end and tourists will only be approached if acting suspiciously.
"I have instructed policemen under my command to strictly refrain from searching foreigners or asking to see their passports unless necessary," he said.
Most of the random searches had occurred in the popular Sukhumvit area and complaints made against police included demands for money for not carrying proper ID, body searches and even conducting urine tests in public.
These tactics over the last year has strained relations between the police and Bangkok’s large expat community.
"Now it is our job as policemen to provide services to tourists rather than conduct searches. We need to create confidence for them," Khajohnpong said.
Patrol officers are now forbidden from carrying drug testing kits, he said, and urine testing is only permitted at police stations.
"I have told my men to speak like diplomats when they engage in conversations with people. They are asked to speak kindly, without any aggression." Khajohnpong said.
"If we smile, tourists will see us in a more positive way."
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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