Thailand is seeing a surge in driving under the influence (DUI) arrests during the Songkran festival, also known as the Thai New Year. On April 12, 2026, officials reported 1,127 DUI cases on April 11, 2026, the second day of the “Seven Dangerous Days” of Songkran 2569.
Rising Numbers and Regional Hotspots
According to the Director-General of the Probation Department, Pol. Lt. Col. Piya Raksakul, a total of 1,174 cases entered the probation process on April 11, 2026. A significant 96% of these – 1,127 cases – involved driving under the influence of alcohol. An additional 47 cases involved driving under the influence of drugs, representing 4% of the total.
Over the first two days of the campaign, April 10-11, 2026, a cumulative total of 1,610 cases were processed. Of these, 1,480 involved driving under the influence, accounting for 91.9% of the total. There were also 127 drug-related driving cases (7.9%) and 3 cases of reckless driving (0.2%).
Chiang Mai, Nonthaburi, and Samut Prakan provinces have recorded the highest number of DUI cases thus far, with 246, 147, and 145 cases respectively.
Proactive Measures and Public Appeal
The Probation Department has implemented proactive measures to prevent road accidents during Songkran 2569, operating under the concepts of “Safe Driving, Reduce Speed, Reduce Accidents” and “Probation Department Joins in Building a Safe Society, Reduce Road Hazards.”
These measures include supporting operations at 29 community and inspection checkpoints with 386 participants, providing training on traffic laws and the dangers of alcohol, and using real-time CCTV monitoring of individuals under probation to reinforce safe driving habits.
Pol. Lt. Col. Piya Raksakul urged citizens to celebrate Songkran safely, adhering to traffic regulations, respecting other road users, and avoiding risky behaviors, particularly “don’t drink and drive.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of cases entering the probation process on April 11, 2026, were related to driving under the influence of alcohol?
96% of the cases entering the probation process on April 11, 2026, were related to driving under the influence of alcohol.
Which three provinces have the highest number of DUI cases?
Chiang Mai (246 cases), Nonthaburi (147 cases), and Samut Prakan (145 cases) have the highest number of DUI cases.
What is the slogan being promoted by the Probation Department to encourage safe driving?
The slogan being promoted is “ดื่มไม่ขับ ขับไม่ดื่ม” (Don’t drink and drive, don’t drive and drink).
As the Songkran festival continues, will these proactive measures be sufficient to curb the number of DUI incidents and ensure road safety for all?
