Thai Junta Uses Special Power To Stop Youth Drinking

BANGKOK (AP) — Thailand's interim premier used special powers under the junta-installed constitution to tackle illegal street racing and alcohol sales near schools and universities.

 

The measures were taken to protect youths from risky behaviors and vices that could lead to societal problems in the future, Deputy government spokesman Sansern Kaewkamnerd said Friday. The five-page order was published in the Royal Gazette and became effective on Thursday.

 

Under the order, public gatherings intended to conduct street racing are banned and parents must take responsibility if their children are involved in such activities. New or harsher penalties than under past laws are possible for those involved.

 

Police and state officials can temporarily confiscate cars or motorcycles suspected of being raced and can arrest suspected racers and spectators.

 

The measures were intended to "tackle the issue comprehensively, not only to go after the youth racers," Sansern said.

 

The order follows a major crackdown in May on the longstanding problem, in which youth blocked streets at night in order to race.

 

The constitution put in place after the coup last year empowered Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha to issue any orders he considered necessary to maintain security and public order. He has exercised the vast powers under Article 44 on several occasions, sometimes to bypass the law and to remove civil servants to inactive posts.

 

Sansern said a recent ban on alcohol sales within 300 meters (feet) of educational institutes should be strictly followed.

 

"Please think about the future of the youths, which will become the future of the country. Do not look at the commercial benefits only," Sansern said. "If you stop selling alcohol and sell food only, you can continue your business as normal