BANGKOK, 26 December 2013 – The Metropolitan Police Bureau is prepared to tighten security measures during the New Year period in a bid to tackle crimes and contain protest movements.
MPB deputy chief Police Maj-Gen Adul Narongsak said that in addition to road safety campaigns, the agency will launch a crackdown on crimes and violent behavior during December 27 to January 2. The MPB will dispatch mobile traffic units to closely monitor anti-government demonstrations.
In the event violence erupts or members of the protest movement fall ill, police have prepared five helicopters to speed up assistance during the festive period.
Police earlier announced campaigns to reduce death toll during the holiday which targets risky behavior including drunk driving, speeding and driving without helmets. Sobriety checkpoints will also be set up across the country, particularly near major countdown events and parties.