In the wake of police stopping nearly 400 young motorbike riders on Sunday and handing out strict punishments, Justice Minister General Paiboon Koomchaya has defended the actions of the officers.
Bangkok North Municipial Court gave 71 street-racing suspects a two-month suspended jail sentence yesterday and fines ranging from THB1,000 to THB5,000.
Gen Paiboon said any youths planning a large gathering in the future must contact the police beforehand so they can assist and help prevent accidents.
“Don’t let your acts of good intention become an illegal thing or public disturbance,” he said.
Another 39 youngsters under 18 were due to be prosecuted at the Central Juvenile and Family Court late yesterday, reported the Nation.
The views of General Paiboon are similar to those of Prawuth Thawornsiri, spokesperson of the Royal Thai Police.
“If they want to organize this kind of activity, they should first ask for permission from the Traffic Police, instead of gathering without permission like this,” Prawuth said.
Photo: MCOT
