Hat Yai Police Defend Traffic Stops Against Malaysian Biker Boycott Call

Hat Yai police have defended their enforcement actions against a group of Malaysian motorcyclists whose social media complaints sparked a viral controversy and boycott campaign. Deputy Superintendent Virasak Pansak explained that officers observed approximately 17 motorcycles from Malaysia on August 17 with modifications including flickering tail lights and loud exhausts, prompting a traffic check at Sai Yai intersection for safety and regulatory compliance.

Police found nine of the 17 motorcycles in violation of traffic laws and issued nine citations totalling 12,000 baht, contradicting online claims of fifteen citations worth 15,000 baht. Fines ranged from 1,000 to 3,000 baht depending on the specific offense. Virasak confirmed officers used calibrated sound-measurement equipment strictly according to legal standards, explaining noise limits clearly to the riders—95 decibels for vehicles registered before 2567, or 90 decibels for those registered from January 1, 2567 onwards.

Virasak stated the viral video distorted facts and that officers treated all tourists, foreign and Thai alike, with equal courtesy and respect without targeting or harassment. He acknowledged concerns about tourism impact but emphasized that enforcing traffic laws fairly upholds the rule of law. After paying their fines, the Malaysian group reportedly posed for photos with police and asked officers to post footage on social media, suggesting relations ended positively.