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Amid growing security concerns, the Pattaya city government, one of Thailand's most popular tourist destinations, has announced a bold plan to reassure tourists and residents. The plan involves deploying AI-powered drones to enhance crime detection and identify foreigners overstaying their visas.
This plan was presented by Pattaya Mayor Poramese Ngampichet on June 9th during a meeting with Police Lieutenant Colonel Torlap Tinamat, Head of the City's Tourist Police Department. Mr. Poramese affirmed: "This initiative will contribute to enhancing Pattaya's image as a safe and friendly destination for both tourists and local residents."
Following criticism regarding security, Pattaya city officials decided to utilize modern technology to protect tourists and residents.
These drones will be connected to a centralized AI database, capable of scanning faces in crowds and accurately identifying individuals with outstanding arrest warrants or expired visas. The drones are expected to be widely deployed at large-scale events and in areas with high tourist traffic, enabling law enforcement to monitor more effectively and respond quickly to suspicious activity.
Dozens of drones filled the sky. Pattaya authorities plan to deploy these drones to combat crime and crack down on tourists overstaying their visas.
Pattaya, located approximately 150 km southeast of Bangkok, is famous for its Walking Street, which attracts millions of visitors annually. However, recently, the city has been experiencing a series of serious incidents, causing deep concern among the public.
A prime example is the incident last week where a Russian tourist was assaulted and robbed at night in a forested area. Although police quickly extracted security camera footage and arrested two suspects the following day, the incident sparked outrage on social media. Many locals and tourists expressed concern about the rising crime rate and criticized the authorities for failing to respond promptly to requests for improved lighting, the installation of more security cameras, and more regular police patrols. Many local residents shared that they no longer dare to go out at night for fear of losing their safety.
The device will be used at large events and areas with high tourist traffic, helping law enforcement agencies monitor and respond quickly when suspicious activity is detected.
Earlier in April, a transgender woman was brutally murdered by a Chinese tourist. More recently, in December last year, a Thai citizen was sentenced to death, while two Germans were sentenced to life imprisonment for murdering a German real estate agent near Pattaya in 2023. These serious crimes further exacerbate security concerns in this vibrant tourist city.
This initiative will contribute to enhancing Pattaya's image as a safe and friendly destination for both tourists and locals.
While Pattaya officials expect AI and drone technology to be effective solutions for tightening security, some argue that Mayor Poramese's "modernization" plans are more about formality than substance.
In an open letter, long-time foreign tourist Alan French bluntly criticized Mr. Poramese for focusing too much on ostentatious activities such as fireworks festivals, themed parades, and flashy performances. French stressed that fundamental and essential issues like deteriorating urban infrastructure and public safety are being neglected. "This city is losing its identity," French warned, asserting that Pattaya needs to prioritize addressing the real needs of its residents and tourists instead of focusing solely on outward glamour.
The application of high technology to security is a commendable step for Pattaya. However, to truly become a safe and friendly destination, the city needs a comprehensive strategy that harmoniously combines modern technology with thorough solutions to core issues related to infrastructure, patrols, and the rapid response of law enforcement agencies.
