THAILAND: In a bid to cut the number of accidents throughout this year’s Songkran Festival, Thailand’s freeway cops launched an innovative scheme: ‘Entrust Your Liquor With The Police’.
Drinkers who couldn’t belief themselves to stay off the wheel have been invited to leave their booze collections at any of 227 Highway Police workplaces around the nation.
The service was free, with the boys in brown promising to return all bottles untouched.
Deputy Commander of the Highway Police Phinit Maneerat stated drink driving was the primary reason for accidents over the Songkran holidays.
“When it involves the major festivals, especially Songkran, wherever individuals go, they intend to get drunk. Discount buy alcohol to take with them in their car, and if they cease for something to eat on the way in which they crack it open,” Col Phinit stated.
“When they go to gala’s with films and performances, they drink alcohol too and then drive their motorbikes or pick-ups to see their associates or their women regardless of being drunk,” he added.
Col Phinit said he wasn’t certain if many would entrust their liquor with the cops, however hoped the marketing campaign would make people consider the dangers of drink driving.
To kick off the campaign, Thai film star Arun “Sumo Tui” Phawilai – who isn’t any stranger to drink driving charges – entrusted a prized bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue Label whisky to the safe hands of the Commander of the Highway Police, Maj Gen Somyot Phromnim.
While the injury could already be done this 12 months, if you are using the roads next Songkran and worry your demons might get the better of you, Thailand’s finest will be ready to take the booze off your arms..