Thailand strenghthens tourism safety measures to enssure international visitors

(ECNS) -- The Royal Thai Police unveiled enhanced safety measures on Sunday, aimed at restoring international confidence in Thailand’s reputation as a premier travel destination.

The move comes in response to a recent surge in cases where foreign nationals were targeted by cross-border scam syndicates using Thailand as a transit hub to neighboring country Myanmar. These incidents have raised concerns about tourist safety and impacted the country’s image.

Pol. Gen. Prakhuab Wongsuk, director of the newly established Tourist Safety Operations Center (TSOC), reaffirmed the government’s commitment to preventing and combating crime to ensure the safety of foreign visitors.

“The government prioritizes crime prevention and comprehensive protection of foreign tourists’ lives and property to maintain Thailand’s reputation as a trusted travel destination,” he stated.

The TSOC will collaborate with the Tourist Police Bureau, led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phuek-am, along with the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Tourism Authority of Thailand. Together, they plan to roll out comprehensive security measures, including a recently launched “Thailand Tourist Police” app.

Introduced on Dec. 12, 2024, the app allows tourists to send messages, photos, and location data for inquiries or emergencies. It connects to the 1155 emergency center, which operates 24/7 in eight languages and coordinates with the 191 emergency hotline for rapid response.

Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira emphasized additional initiatives, such as closer collaboration with foreign embassies in Thailand for effective communication and emergency response. Accurate safety information is also being shared through international channels to keep visitors informed.

The Royal Thai Police reiterated its commitment to safeguarding tourists through these measures, aiming to restore global confidence in Thailand as a safe and welcoming destination.