“We have established checkpoints around popular venues such as CentralWorld, Iconsiam, Asiatique, and temples organizing New Year chanting ceremonies,” he said. “Officers dispatched include traffic police, investigators and the crime suppression division. They are urged to provide assistance in facilitating traffic flow and providing general security."
Furthermore, the police has set up PR booths at selected checkpoints to remind the people not to drink while driving and stick to the speed limit to reduce accidents during the New Year holidays.
“The intelligence agency has reported that there is no sign of any terrorist act at the moment, but we will remain cautious until the events conclude on January 1,” he said.
As for countdown events in other provinces, the Royal Thai Police has ordered local police stations to coordinate with local administration offices and related agencies to monitor the situation closely, especially drunk driving. “We will not focus on arresting drunk drivers, but will instead detain them at the checkpoints until they are sober, or someone comes to pick them up,” he said.