Taxi Mafias Arrested

September 11, 2013

Police announced the arrest of taxi mafia in Phuket, complaints from 16 embassies and social networks have been received about tourist being harassed by taxi mafias. Instant measures are being taken to resolve this problem.

PHUKET– September 9, 2013 [PDN]; at 1.30PM at the police National office, Tourism and Sports Minister Somsak Phurisisak, Commander of the National Police, Adul Saengsingksew and other police officers had arrested Mr.Pom Sukasem,42 years old and Mr. Sari Sukasem, 52 years old who takes care of the taxi stand in front of Central Festival.

He was arrested in front of 130/42 Moo 5, Muang, and Vichit Moo 2 in Phuket on 8th of September. The two brothers were accused of controlling the taxi queues and for physically hurting taxi drivers for not pay for the service. Moreover, even taxi drivers that do not use their queue service are physically agitated and beaten when their taxi drops tourist in front of Central Festival. This issue has become a major concern for tourists.

After interrogating Mr.Pom he denied all allegations but admitted that he takes care of the taxi stand. This came about when 170 taxi drivers agreed on paying 200 baht per month membership.They were preparing to apply for registration as a cooperative taxi for tourists care but the police arrested them before. The police have charged them for intimidation and extortion campaign.

Tourism and Sports Minister Somsak Phurisisak received complaints from social networks and 16 embassies regarding the chaotic taxi mafias in many touristy places especially Phuket province. It is reported that these taxis have threatened and misbehaved by physically intimidating the tourists. This has affected the reputation of the country. Office of the National Police are now taking measures for the safety of tourist.