Police in Loei province launched a nine-day operation targeting an illegal street racing gang, seizing nearly 100 modified motorcycles and taking legal action against numerous offenders. The operation, designed to address the public nuisance and safety risks posed by street racing.
A press conference was held by Loei’s Provincial Governor Chaipoj Jarunpong and Police Major General Phongpipat Siripornviwat to announce the operation’s results. The initiative, named “Police Loei: Trim the Cat’s Whiskers,” involved 19 police stations across 14 districts, along with the Provincial Investigation Unit. As part of the operation, police confiscated loud exhaust pipes and destroyed more than 200 of them using a road roller.
Maj. Gen. Phongpipat explained the need for the coordinated effort, emphasizing that Loei is a popular tourist destination where visitors expect a safe and peaceful environment. Checkpoints and patrols were set up in areas prone to street racing, such as near schools, motorcycle modification shops, and convenience stores, to prevent accidents and disturbances.
The operation led to the confiscation of 90 illegally modified motorcycles and 192 loud exhaust pipes. Legal action was taken against 91 individuals for vehicle modifications and reckless driving. Additionally, 126 people were cited for riding noisy motorcycles on public roads, and 37 modification or accessory shops were inspected. Legal proceedings were initiated against 134 individuals for vehicle alterations, 57 for obstructive driving, five for reckless driving, and 368 for not having a valid driver’s license.
Other violations included 227 individuals allowing others to use their driving licenses, and 179 vehicles missing proper equipment or accessories.
Police issued a stern warning to young people involved in these activities, reminding them that street racing is a serious offense under the Road Traffic Act, punishable by up to three months in prison and fines ranging from 2,000 to 10,000 baht (US$58 to US$292). Parents or guardians could face legal consequences under the Child Protection Act if their children under 18 engage in illegal activities, with penalties including up to three months in prison and fines of up to 30,000 baht (US$878).
Authorities also targeted establishments involved in vehicle modifications. Under the Industrial Product Standards Act, offenders could face fines of 5,000 to 50,000 baht (US$146 to US$1,463) and up to one month in prison.
Police reinforced their zero-tolerance policy toward modified racing vehicles, loud exhausts, and reckless driving, emphasizing that such activities are a societal nuisance. Offending vehicles will be impounded, and violators prosecuted.
Residents were urged to report street racing activities to local police or the 191 emergency hotline, available 24/7. All Loei police stations are actively monitoring, inspecting, and preventing illegal street racing to ensure community safety.
