Koh Tao: Foreign observers are not allowed much
Observers from Myanmar and England are allowed to 'observe' the progress of the Koh Tao murder investigation, but they are not allowed to 'interfere' with it. The police also do not have to keep them informed of every step they take. The diplomats are only allowed to ask for "clarification" if they have questions.
Prime Minister Prayut yesterday gave a further explanation of the appointment made a day earlier between the ambassadors of both countries, the head of the national police and the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Or should I write: he backed down on the commitment of both officials?
According to research leader Paveen Pongsirin in Samui, the investigation report is complete, a statement that contradicts previous statements by the Public Prosecution Service that the report has 'holes' and that further evidence is required.
Wannee Thaipanich, chairman of the Tourism Promotion Association of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, believes that the full moon parties on the party island should be better organized 'to improve the image of tourism in the South'. There's partying almost every night and not just once a month, which was the original plan, she notes.
Wannee says the businesses on Haad Rin beach should take stricter security measures and the party should become drug-free. All partygoers would have to pay an entrance fee of 100 baht and receive a wristband so that they can enter with a space shuttle can be returned to their hotel when they are drunk. Tourists under the age of 18 should only attend the party if accompanied by their parents.
The mayor of Koh Phangan is also making a contribution. He wants safety checks on boats, drug tests on crews, no access for minors, surveillance cameras on the beach and island, as well as safety training for volunteers and representatives of the tourism organizations, given by the police. According to the mayor, 'half moon' and 'black moon' parties are now also organized on the beach.
(Source: Bangkok Post, October 16, 2014)