In response to multiple inquiries from readers, The Phuket News contacted Phuket Police headquarters this afternoon.
“We have not yet received an official order [to ban alcohol sales] from the Royal Thai Police [Regional and Central ommands]. We have to wait for an announcement closer to the dates [of December 5 and 10]," affirmed Provincial Police Commander Maj Gen Patchara Boonyasit.
In Thailand, alcohol sales bans are strictly enforced on major Buddhist holidays (Asalha, Makha and Visakha Bucha days) and on the days of elections.
However, the “official ruling” has been inconsistent for other important holidays, especially Father’s and Mother’s days – Their Majesties the King and Queen’s Birthdays, on December 5 and August 12 respectively.
This chart shows alcohol sales bans on Thai public holidays in the past several years
As soon as The Phuket News receives official confirmation, we will keep readers posted.