UDONTHANI, Thailand – A viral social media post reveals traffic police in Udonthani allegedly setting up roadside tables to collect fines, offering two options: an official payment with a receipt or a discounted cash payment without a receipt.
The clip, shared by the Facebook page “Esor Khayilaek,” shows an officer accepting cash from locals without issuing receipts, sparking outrage online. The post sarcastically noted, “Two services available: get a ticket with a receipt or pay less and save paper with no receipt.”
The video has been widely shared and criticized. Comments range from calls to eliminate commission-based ticketing to complaints about such practices persisting for decades.
In response, Pol. Col. Patthanawong Chanphon, Superintendent of Muang Udonthani Police Station, confirmed the incident occurred on December 21, during the day, on the Udonthani-Nong Khai Road, inbound to the city. He thanked the whistleblower for exposing the misconduct, emphasizing accountability.
An internal investigation has been launched, and 18 officers involved have been temporarily suspended. A meeting with all traffic officers at Muang Udonthani Police Station has been scheduled for December 23 to review regulations and guidelines.
Pol. Col. Patthanawong also urged the public to report any unclear or suspicious behavior by officers directly at 099-1546455, assuring fairness and transparency.
