The delegation was led by Police Committee Chairman Watcharapong Kuwijitsuwan and included committee members together with Phuket MP Somchart Techathaworncharoen.
Mr Watcharapong is the Bhumjaithai MP for Saraburi.
The delegation was welcomed by Phuket Provincial Police Deputy Commander Col Theerawat Liamsuwann, Phuket City Police Chief Col Chatree Chukaew and Thalang Police Chief Col Nikorn Chuthong.
Police officers briefed the committee on crime prevention and suppression efforts, measures to protect the lives and property of residents and tourists, law enforcement operations, and the use of technology and management systems to improve policing efficiency and security across Phuket.
A key issue raised during the visit was Phuket’s ongoing traffic congestion, particularly proposals to construct a U-turn in the Koh Kaew area.
Col Chatree explained that Phuket City Police had held extensive discussions with the Phuket Highway Department and local residents regarding the project. Although the Highway Department was prepared to seek funding for the construction, public consultations failed to secure sufficient support.
He said some local residents were concerned that either an overpass or underpass would negatively affect the appearance of nearby homes and businesses, preventing the project from moving forward and ultimately leading to it being shelved.
Col Nikorn noted that Thalang Police had continuously deployed officers to manage traffic congestion, but said constructing a suitably located U-turn would significantly improve traffic flow and ease congestion for motorists.
Mr Watcharapong said the committee would coordinate with relevant government agencies and landowners in an effort to identify a suitable solution that would benefit the wider public.
During the meeting, Mr Somchart also raised concerns over assistance for victims linked to the so-called “horse racing list” case, many of whom are migrant workers from other provinces.
He proposed allowing victims to travel to Phuket to provide testimony instead of requiring them to return to the province responsible for investigating the case, reducing travel costs and inconvenience. Phuket City Police confirmed they were prepared to cooperate within the framework of the law to assist those affected.
Following the presentations, committee members met with police personnel to discuss operational challenges and gather suggestions aimed at improving policing, crime prevention and public safety, said an official report of the meeting.
Mr Watcharapong also said the visit was also intended to boost the morale of police officers serving in Phuket.
During the visit, he donated B10,000 to the ‘Police Families Don’t Abandon Each Other’ welfare project, which apparently “supports the wellbeing and quality of life of police officers and their families”.