PATTAYA, THAILAND – Authorities in Pattaya carried out large-scale safety inspections at nightlife venues shortly before the New Year in a bid to better protect tourists and prevent fires.
Joint evening operation in entertainment district
Banglamung district chief Anusak Phiriyomorn led a coordinated inspection of entertainment venues across Pattaya. Senior police officers, including Pol. Lt. Col. Siriwat Katchamat, deputy head of prevention and suppression at Pattaya City Police, and Pol. Lt. Col. Aphichat Charurak from the Tourist Police, took part alongside district officials and local police units. Teams moved on foot through well-known nightlife areas, spoke with operators and held briefings directly in front of the venues.
Checks aligned with national safety directives
The inspections were in line with national government and police directives giving top priority during the holiday period to protecting tourists’ lives and property and ensuring fire safety. Officers checked emergency exits and their signage, fire extinguishers and their maintenance status, as well as initial security screenings of guests for illegal activities. According to the authorities, most venues already largely complied with the rules, but some shortcomings were found, including unclear or insufficient exit markings and missing or outdated extinguishers.
Operators ordered to fix deficiencies quickly
Venue operators with deficiencies were ordered to remedy them immediately. Officials made it clear that failure to comply could lead to further measures.
“Operators were required to correct the shortcomings without delay, with a clear warning that additional action could follow in cases of non-compliance.”
said Anusak Phiriyomorn, Banglamung district chief.
Strict fireworks ban in and around venues
Authorities issued particularly strong warnings against the use of fireworks and firecrackers inside or near entertainment venues during New Year festivities. They stressed that such effects in crowded indoor spaces posed significant fire risks and that violations could have serious consequences, including high fines for operators and, in extreme cases, permanent closure of the business. Police announced they would strictly monitor compliance with these rules on New Year’s Eve and during countdown events.
Appeal to tourists and promise of strong presence
Anusak coupled the inspections with an invitation to both Thai and international visitors to spend the New Year period in Pattaya.
“We invite all tourists to celebrate the turn of the year in Pattaya, where extensive safety arrangements will be in place.”
said Anusak Phiriyomorn, Banglamung district chief. He said both uniformed and plainclothes officers would patrol busy areas during year-end events to enhance security.
New Year greeting and focus on safe celebrations
At the end of the operation, Anusak extended New Year’s greetings to all residents of Banglamung district.
“These measures are intended to make the turn of the year as safe as possible for both guests and local residents.”
said Anusak Phiriyomorn, Banglamung district chief. The campaign underscored the authorities’ message that, amid packed clubs and tight spaces, safety would take precedence over atmosphere during the holiday period.