The Metropolitan Police Chief personally inspected all key locations, enforcing strict safety protocols and thorough screening while fully supporting tourists. He clearly emphasized the message, “Safe Songkran: Don’t Drink and Drive, Respect Others’ Rights,” and instructed officers to perform their duties with honesty, transparency, and to use polite behavior and language toward the public.
At 23:00 on 11 Apr 2026 GMT+7, Police Lieutenant General Siam Boonsom, Metropolitan Police Chief, accompanied by Police Major General Theeradej Thammasuthir, Deputy Chief, visited various important locations in Bangkok. They oversaw police officers' duties to ensure safety and facilitate convenience for citizens and tourists participating in the Songkran festival. From the first day, large numbers of people and tourists joined, creating a lively atmosphere.
The Chief inspected main event sites including the World Water Festival at Benjakitti Park under Lumpini Police Station jurisdiction, the S2S Songkran Fest 2026 at The Street Ratchada, and the S2O Songkran Music Festival at S2O Land on Watthana Road under Huay Kwang Police Station, as well as Songkran activities in the RCA area under Makkasan Police Station.
Inspections found that police officers at all points performed their duties strictly and smoothly. Screening and personal searches before entry were rigorously enforced. Adequate personnel, including police, security guards, and the MPB S.W.A.T. special operations team, were deployed to secure surrounding areas. A joint operations command center was established to coordinate with related agencies, resulting in comprehensive safety management. Overall, events proceeded without incident.
Police Lieutenant General Siam stated he closely monitored the situation on the ground, focusing on security, space organization, and crowd control. He instructed officers to be meticulous and strict in their duties while preparing for any possible incidents, especially crime prevention such as theft, fights, and other offenses. He ordered increased patrol frequency and integration of forces from all sectors to ensure maximum safety for the public.
Regarding traffic, he emphasized close management around event areas to facilitate convenience, reduce congestion, and prevent accidents during peak attendance. He stressed public awareness campaigns under the theme “Safe Songkran: Don’t Drink and Drive, Respect Others’ Rights” to ensure the water festivities are conducted appropriately and within legal frameworks.
Police Lieutenant General Siam visited checkpoint (W.43) and alcohol testing points at Asoke Expressway 1 on the Si Rat Expressway under Expressway Police Station 2 jurisdiction. He presented beverages to encourage and support officers on duty. He also reminded personnel to uphold principles of honesty, transparency, use polite conduct and language with citizens, prioritize safety, and strictly follow procedures (SOP). The Metropolitan Police has deployed full police forces throughout the Songkran festival to reassure citizens and tourists, ensuring that events in Bangkok proceed smoothly, safely, and enhance the capital’s positive image among both Thai and international visitors.