The action followed orders by Tourist Police Commander Pol Lt Gen Saksira Puek-am for Phuket Tourist Police to work with local police and transport officials to step up enforcement against illegal public transport operations, said a report by Phuket Tourist Police.
Checkpoints have been set up across the island, including at Phuket International Airport, on Phra Baramee Rd in Kathu, on Mueang Chao Fa Rd in Wichit, near Chalong Police Station, in front of Wat Mongkol Nimit in Phuket Town, on Sri Suthat Rd, and near Karon Police Station.
As of Wednesday (Dec 24), a total of 184 offenders had been arrested and prosecuted. Of these, 57 drivers were charged with using vehicles not registered for public transport service (black licence plates), while 127 others were charged with various related offences, Phuket Tourist Police confirmed.
Phuket Tourist Police said the operation aims to protect tourists, ensure safety standards and maintain confidence in Phuket’s public transport system. Further inspections and crackdowns are expected to continue.