Release time: August 7, 2023 at 18:32
CHONBURI: Police are stepping up efforts to stop a group of Arab tourists riding motorcycles for illegal street racing following complaints from Pattaya residents and other tourists.
Pattaya City police chief Pol Col Thanapong Photi met with authorities and motorcycle rental operators on Monday to discuss measures against foreign motorcycle racers who disrupt the peace by turning certain roads into racing tracks at night , and may pose a threat to public safety.
Traffic police chief Lieutenant Colonel Arut Sapanunte said traffic police were deployed to enforce the law after receiving complaints.
Lieutenant Colonel Arut added that they are still seeking the cooperation of motorcycle rental companies to solve this problem. Motorbike rental operators have been told to check customers’ passports and driving licenses thoroughly and keep copies for further checks, he said.
However, some tourists without a permit often have others rent bikes for them, he said.
Lt. Col. Arut, who led a team of police officers enforcing traffic laws on Soi 18 on Sunday night, said checkpoints would be set up at locations where motorcyclists congregate for illegal activities.
When making an arrest, police issue two separate tickets, he said.
One of them targets motorcycle riders, who face charges including not wearing a helmet, driving without a license, using a vehicle with unauthorized modifications such as a loud exhaust pipe, and more.
Another is the impoundment of motorcycles used for illegal street racing, and motorcycle rental businesses or motorcycle owners will be fined 2,000 baht, he said.
In the early hours of July 31, residents of Soi Yensabai in South Pattaya notified the police of illegal street racing by Arab tourists, which aroused widespread concern.
When police were called, they found a group of Arab motorcyclists gathering in the area and blocking the road. Police asked them to disperse and confiscated 15 motorcycles blocking traffic because they ignored warnings.
Staff at a hotel in the area said several guests had moved out because they couldn’t stand the noise, while a resident also called on police to take action against motorcycle rental businesses.
