Area police and political officials inaugurated Pattaya’s new police beach patrols with cartoon characters, but are assuring tourists its new commitment to safety won’t be comical.
Chonburi Gov. Khomsan Ekachai, Banglamung District Chief Sakchai Taengho, Pattaya Mayor Itthiphol Kunplome, and Tourist Police commander Pol. Lt. Col. Arun Promphan cut the ribbon the new patrol center at Bali Hai Pier Dec. 4.
Police and government officials cut the ceremonial ribbon to kick off Pattaya’s new nightly police beach patrols.
The start of the new service, aimed at providing services and safety to tourists to enhance Pattaya’s image and build tourist confidence, was heralded with a parade, dancers from Hollywood nightclub, cultural shows put on by Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, a transvestite cabaret from the Alcazar Theatre and appearances from Miss Thailand pageant runners up.
Officials, however, said their nightly patrols have a serious goal to reduce crime and improve safety for tourists on the beachfront.
Pattaya police will patrol the beach in gray shorts and orange short-sleeve shirts to make them both recognizable and more approachable than the normal “boys in brown.”
They will patrol the beachfront on Segways, ATVs, motorcycles, on foot, and even on horseback.
