Pattaya tightens security as USS Abraham Lincoln crew arrive

Pattaya has strengthened security and visitor services as sailors and Marines from the US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln begin arriving in the resort city for rest and recreation.

The nuclear-powered Nimitz-class carrier arrived at Laem Chabang Port in Chonburi on Wednesday (September 2) and docked at Terminal C0 of Laem Chabang International Ro-Ro Terminal. Approximately 5,000 US military personnel are visiting Thailand during the scheduled port call.

Pattaya City, Bang Lamung district, the police, administrative authorities, private businesses and other relevant agencies have integrated their operations to provide security and assistance throughout the personnel’s shore leave.

By Wednesday afternoon, the first groups had begun disembarking before travelling to Pattaya and other locations. Some commanders and crew members were transported by bus to hotels and designated recreation areas in the city.

Tight security around Laem Chabang berth

Security was tightened around Laem Chabang Port while the personnel disembarked. Access to the berth and the immediate area surrounding the carrier was restricted to authorised personnel to maintain safety and public order.

Officials from the port, Royal Thai Navy, security agencies and local administrative bodies coordinated operations throughout the arrival process.

Capt Dan Keeler, commanding officer of USS Abraham Lincoln, was welcomed at Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya by Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet and representatives of relevant agencies. The two sides exchanged commemorative gifts during the reception.

Keeler expressed his appreciation for the welcome and thanked Pattaya City and the agencies involved for assisting the carrier’s personnel during their stay. The US Navy said the visit would allow its sailors and Marines to rest and recharge while experiencing Thailand.

Personnel transported to hotels and attractions

US personnel continued arriving in Pattaya by bus before dispersing to hotels, restaurants, shopping areas and recreation venues across the city.

Officials were deployed along the routes to facilitate travel and ensure that the movement of large groups did not disrupt residents or other visitors.

Mobile foreign-currency exchange services were also provided near some accommodation areas, allowing personnel to exchange money conveniently before visiting attractions and businesses around Pattaya.

City stresses safety and fair treatment

Poramet said Pattaya City had coordinated with Bang Lamung district, police, administrative officials, private businesses and other agencies to prepare for the arrival.

The authorities were focusing on security, convenience and the fair sale of goods and services, with businesses urged not to overcharge or exploit visitors.

Pattaya’s preparations include comprehensive security and crime-prevention measures across the city, while venues and attractions remain open to the public as normal.

Poramet described the shore leave as an important opportunity to stimulate Pattaya’s economy.

The visiting personnel are expected to spend money at hotels, restaurants, tourism attractions, shops, transport services and other local businesses, helping distribute income throughout the city.

He said Pattaya was ready to be a good host and hoped the visit would leave the personnel with a positive impression of the international tourism destination.

Police deploy across tourism areas

Pattaya City Police have integrated their operations with administrative authorities, the municipality and other relevant agencies.

Officers have been deployed across tourism areas and other locations that the personnel may visit, rather than concentrating on one particular district, because visitors are free to travel to different parts of the city.

Police have divided Pattaya into areas of responsibility and prepared personnel to respond quickly to any incident.

Businesses and residents have also been asked to serve as community “sensors” by reporting unusual behaviour or any situation that could threaten public safety.

Additional patrols have been prepared along Pattaya Beach and in major nightlife areas during the carrier’s visit.

Police address concerns over post-deployment stress

Responding to concerns that some personnel could be experiencing stress after completing a prolonged operational deployment, Pattaya police chief Pol Col Anek Srathongyoo urged the public not to be alarmed.

He said the purpose of the visit was to allow the personnel to rest and enjoy shore leave, giving them an opportunity to relax after their mission.

Residents and businesses were encouraged to welcome the US personnel in the same manner as other international visitors.

Authorities said they would maintain full security operations to protect residents and tourists and preserve Pattaya’s image as an international destination.

Walking Street and other nightlife and tourism areas were expected to become particularly busy on Wednesday evening as personnel began visiting local venues, potentially providing a significant short-term boost for businesses.