FUNCTION & RESPONSIBILITY
Functions and responsibilities of the Tourist Police Division are as follows:
To suppress and to protect criminal problems affecting international tourists.
To facilitate and to provide both Thai and international tourists with the security and protection of their interests.
To promote the Thai tourism industry.
To join with or to support any activities of the authorities concerned.
The duty of the Tourist Police is to help and care for tourists throughout Thailand. We would like you to enjoy your trip in the Land of Smiles. We can advise tourists about how to take care of themselves, as well as alerting them to some common problems that they should be aware of when travelling in Thailand.
Situation 1
Visitors are approached in crowded places such as a street, hotel, restaurant or market, by a respectable-looking man who can speak fluent English. They will be very friendly and often offer their free assistance or service during this conversation with the tourists. At some point, the well-dressed robbers may steal or swap the toursits' bag and run away, or the tourists may find out that they have been cheated in some way after the person has departed.
Precautions:
Beware of any encounters with strangers that end up requiring you to buy something in shops or places.
There are no government promotions or special salea at any time of the year.
Don't leave your bags unattended at any time.
Keep your valuables properly protected from loss or keep them with you at all time.
Never leave your valuables out of sight - even briefly.
Don't accept drinks from strangers.
Situation 2
Traveling on an overnight coach, van or taxi, tourists will usually put their bags in the luggage compartment, boot or put them under their seats. There are some dishonest drivers who will steal these bags or remove valuables from the bags. Moreover, there are some women or transvestites (ladyboys) who will sit close to tourists on a tuk-tuk or bus and attempt to steal wallets or cash. Tourists can also be invited to a hotel where they may be drugged and robbed.
Precautions:
Note down the vehicle's registration number and its color, name of the travel agency as well as the description of the driver or other staff.
Take your bags out of the boot before paying the taxi or bus fare.
Keep zippered bags secured with small locks.
Check your valuables before getting off the vehicle.
Keep the ticket for reference.
Beware of persons sitting very close to you when in a bus or tuk-tuk.
If invited to a hotel, ensure that your new friend(s) leave their ID card at the hotel reception
Don't forget to take these precautions with regard to personal safety and security of your belongings. You will have a wonderful time whilst you are staying in Thailand!