Wattachak, a Lao national, shared a video with Thai media on 7/7, documenting an incident where Thai traffic police stopped his vehicle and accused him of a road marking violation. He urged Thai authorities to clarify the situation.
Wattachak recounted driving to Bangkok to meet friends. Dashcam footage showed his vehicle in the left lane, where road markings clearly permitted both proceeding straight and turning left.
Following a Thai-plated car that turned left, Wattachak made the same maneuver. However, immediately after passing the intersection, a traffic police officer stationed nearby stopped him.
Initially, Wattachak believed officers wanted to conduct a routine check due to his Lao license plate and presented all necessary documents. However, the officers informed him that vehicles were not allowed to turn left at that location, despite other cars having just done so.
A Lao driver Wattachak posted a video recording the incident of being stopped by Thai traffic police. Video: KhaoSod
According to Wattachak, he requested an explanation for the alleged violation but received no direct answer. Instead, officers stated he could face a fine of up to 4,000 baht (approximately 119 USD).
Wattachak explained it was his first time driving in Bangkok and attempted to negotiate. He stated that an officer contacted a superior, subsequently reducing the fine to 500 baht (nearly 15 USD). Wattachak paid the cash to avoid further delays, noting he received neither a receipt nor a penalty ticket.
Initially, Wattachak did not suspect anything amiss. However, after sharing his experience with Thai friends, they found the situation "unusual." Wattachak believes foreign drivers unfamiliar with Thai traffic laws may easily encounter similar situations.
After the incident circulated and sparked debate on social media, the Makkasan police station confirmed today that the officers in the video are from their unit and the event occurred at the Marayat Dee intersection, near Royal City Avenue in Bangkok.
Police Chief Uramporn Khundatesamrit also confirmed that vehicles are permitted to turn left at this intersection. Regarding Wattachak's claims, he suggested it might have been a "misunderstanding" between the traffic police and the driver.
Uramporn further clarified that officers mentioned the maximum fine of 4,000 baht to "provide useful legal information" regarding traffic violations, not to threaten the driver. However, Uramporn did not specify the reason for the 500 baht fine.
The Police Chief stated that he and his officers attempted to contact Wattachak via Facebook to "clarify the incident and improve understanding between both parties," but had not received a response. A special committee has also been established to review the matter and ensure fairness for all involved parties.
Ngoc Anh (According to KhaoSod, Thaiger)
