Tourist Police Join Hands with Thailand Public Taxi Federation to Train Taxi Drivers as Tourism Safety Partners

In line with the policy directives of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Minister of Tourism and Sports Sorawong Thienthong, and National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kitrat Phanphet, efforts are being stepped up to curb the exploitation of tourists by public transport operators. The initiative also aims to foster cooperation with taxi operators to ensure tourists are welcomed with safety and hospitality throughout their visit to Thailand.

On June 13, 2025, Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Pheuak-um, Commissioner of the Tourist Police Bureau, together with Mr. Jaturon Phakdeewanit, Director-General of the Department of Tourism, representatives from the Department of Land Transport and the Traffic Police Division, as well as the Thailand Public Taxi Federation, jointly launched a training session for over 120 taxi drivers serving Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports.

The program, titled “Taxi Driver Network for Tourist Assistance,” aims to enhance driver awareness on tourist safety, reduce incidents of fraud and exploitation, and promote the role of taxi drivers as frontline ambassadors for Thailand’s image.

Commissioner Saksira Pheuak-um stated, “This training begins with drivers based at the country’s main international gateways, who are among the first people tourists encounter upon arrival. The Tourist Police Bureau is committed to building partnerships with communities and sectors involved in the tourism cycle to ensure visitor safety and a welcoming environment. By establishing this network through training, taxi drivers gain a better understanding of regulations and their critical role in protecting tourists. They also become key allies in reporting incidents involving tourists, further strengthening the collaboration between public transport providers and the Tourist Police.”