Happy Valentine’s Day, dear readers. A day notorious in Thailand for first marriages, first times, and, according to police, sex crimes, drug abuse and human trafficking.
With that in mind, the Royal Thai police have vowed to tighten surveillance on motels and entertainment venues to prevent sex-related crimes during the greeting card industry’s favorite holiday.
Yesterday, Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police Gen. Chakthip Chaijinda ordered a wide patrol of police officers, both in and out of uniform, with an emphasis on areas that pose as high risk for theft and sexual or violent crimes — including clubs, bars, hotels, motels and parks, reported Khaosod.
What’s more, police will be setting up checkpoints along the streets to inspect for illegal activity such as alcohol or drug abuse.
Those found guilty will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law, he said. (Insert Law & Order “dun dun!”)
Meanwhile, Police deputy spokesman Pol. Col. Krissana Patanacharoen added a plea for citizens to express their love in accordance with the kingdom’s traditions and cultures.
He asks for parents to tell their children about potential threats and danger before going out to celebrate tonight. As for the youths, Krissana asks to stay safe and avoid risky behaviors, reported Thai Post.
So, in more colloquial terms, don’t do anything stupid. Oh, and use protection.
As always, hundreds of couples are expected to flock to Bang Rak district, the district of love, today to celebrate Valentine’s Day by making their love official.
About 310 couples signed up for marriage certificates at the Bang Rak district office this morning as it once again hosts a special Valentine’s event where gold-plated marriage certificates will be given out to 10 lucky couples every hour.
The first couple to receive a marriage certificate arrived at 10:30pm last night to stand in line, reported Thairath.
So have fun tonight, guys, but keep it safe. The police will be watching.
By the way, if for any reason you need the police tonight, don’t forget the emergency hotline here is 191 (not 911) or 1599
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