Malaysian Driver Sought by Thai Police After Allegedly Forcing Off Wheel Clamp in Hat Yai Incident
HAT YAI — Thai authorities are intensifying efforts to locate a Malaysian motorist accused of deliberately damaging a traffic enforcement wheel clamp after parking illegally in a restricted zone, in a case that has raised concerns over compliance with local laws among foreign drivers.
The incident occurred at a key junction involving Kong Khong Road and Prachathipat Road, where traffic officers had earlier taken action against a Mercedes-Benz registered in Malaysia.
From Routine Violation to Criminal Offence
Hat Yai police chief Macha Kaewthong said the situation initially began as a routine traffic enforcement case.
Officers identified the vehicle parked in a no-parking zone and issued a summons before immobilising it with a wheel clamp, a standard measure to prevent non-compliant vehicles from being moved.
However, the case escalated when the vehicle owner allegedly chose to forcibly remove the clamp instead of resolving the violation through proper channels.
Police received a report at around 10.30am indicating that the clamp had been destroyed and the driver had fled the scene.
Surveillance Footage Key to Investigation
Authorities said preliminary findings suggest the suspect reversed the vehicle with force to break the clamp and snap the cable securing it.
The act was recorded by CCTV cameras positioned near the junction, providing investigators with crucial visual evidence.
“The footage clearly shows the suspect damaging the clamp before leaving the area,” Macha said.
He emphasised that such actions go beyond a simple traffic offence, as they involve damage to government property and obstruction of official duties.
Cross-Agency Coordination Activated
Following the incident, Thai police immediately circulated the vehicle’s registration details to customs and immigration authorities across the country.
Border checkpoints have been placed on alert, with officials instructed to monitor for the vehicle to prevent the suspect from leaving Thailand.
Authorities have also coordinated with enforcement agencies along the Thailand-Malaysia border to assist in identifying and locating the driver.
“This is a serious matter, and we are working with all relevant agencies to ensure the suspect is traced,” Macha added.
Legal Consequences Await
The suspect could face charges under Section 159, Paragraph Two of the Land Traffic Act 1979.
If convicted, penalties may include imprisonment for up to three months, a fine, or both.
Police stressed that offences involving the destruction of enforcement equipment are treated with severity under Thai law.
Case Reflects Broader Enforcement Concerns
The incident has drawn attention to the responsibilities of foreign drivers travelling in Thailand, particularly in popular border cities where Malaysian vehicles are frequently seen.
Authorities reiterated that all motorists must respect local laws and enforcement procedures, regardless of nationality.
The case also highlights the growing reliance on surveillance technology and inter-agency cooperation in enforcing traffic regulations.
Ongoing Efforts to Locate Suspect
Investigators remain confident that the suspect will be identified, given the availability of CCTV footage and vehicle registration information.
Efforts to track the individual’s movements are ongoing, with authorities monitoring border crossings and reviewing additional surveillance data.
The case serves as a reminder that attempts to evade enforcement can lead to more serious legal consequences, reinforcing the importance of compliance with traffic laws.
-wilayah.com.my
