Pattaya Police are stepping up efforts to combat illegal guns as Thailand’s contentious election nears.
More checkpoints are being set up around the city to prevent firearms from being brought into Pattaya, a battleground for three major parties.
Police check vehicles in North Pattaya for illegal weapons, correct licenses and helmet use.
Standing at a checkpoint at the intersection of Second and North Roads June 7, Sub. Lt. Samret Chanwiset said the roads were generally clear during the day, but police often found weapons inside cars after dark. The Chonburi Traffic Department is also having police vigilantly check for licenses and helmet use.
Police doubt the Pattaya area will be subjected to the type of election violence expected upcountry. But with campaign signs from various parties repeatedly damaged, tension is still running high on the Eastern Seaboard.
