SONGKHLA: Three Malaysian tourists were fined a total of 12,000 baht (about RM1,447) by Thai police after they were caught obstructing traffic and making illegal vehicle modifications along Phetkasem Road in Hat Yai early today.
Hat Yai Police Station deputy traffic inspector Police Lieutenant Prut Pattanapran said the three men, aged between 26 and 30, were summoned to the police station along with a Thai national following public complaints about their conduct.
He said the incident occurred at 12.30am and involved three Malaysian-registered cars, in blue, red and white, and a black car belonging to the Thai national, travelling in a convoy along the road.
“The driver of the black car at the front was believed to be recording a video for social media content, while the group of vehicles made several U-turns, revved their engines loudly and obstructed traffic,” he told reporters today.
Prut said their actions angered local residents before footage of the incident went viral on social media.
“The group of tourists was believed to have been recording social media content while carrying out these stunts and may not have been aware of Thailand’s traffic regulations,” he said.
He said all four individuals pleaded guilty and paid fines of 4,000 baht (about RM482) each before being released today.
Prut advised foreign tourists to understand, respect and comply with Thai laws throughout their stay to avoid breaking the law.