Funding for protection
Four of Phuket's top tourist business associations are planning to establish a fund to help pay for extra police patrols and equipment.
Phuket Tourist Association head Maitree Narukhatpichai said yesterday the idea sprang from widespread fears about the possible effects of an act of terror on the island's all-important tourism industry. Phuket Provincial Police Commander Maj General Decha Budnampetch agreed with the idea, as only a little over 1,000 police were on active duty in Phuket province. He said the Fourth Army Area had offered manpower if requested. "But I don't think that would create a very good atmosphere for tourists," he said. And the police had no money to cover overtime.
Phuket Gazette
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