OAG Introduces Stricter Measures
An academic has praised the Office of the Attorney-General’s new guidelines, announced on June 15, 2025, which allow Thai courts to confiscate vehicles from drunk drivers. The measure aims to deter reckless behavior and enhance road safety across the country.
Academic Backs Confiscation Policy
Intent Justifies Asset Seizure
Pokpong Srisanit, dean of Thammasat University’s Faculty of Law, supports the policy, arguing that drunk driving demonstrates a deliberate disregard for others’ safety. He noted that criminal law permits asset forfeiture when clear intent to break the law is evident, making vehicles eligible for seizure.
Proportionality in Enforcement
Lessons from Global Practices
Pokpong emphasized that vehicle confiscation should be proportional to the offense, citing France’s approach of reserving seizures for repeat offenders or cases involving fatalities or severe injuries. Tailoring the penalty ensures fairness while maintaining its effectiveness as a deterrent.
Consistency Key to Success
Corruption Threatens Impact
While endorsing the guidelines, Pokpong warned that inconsistent enforcement due to corruption could undermine their impact. He stressed that strict, uniform application is more critical than harsher penalties, ensuring the policy achieves its goal of reducing drunk driving incidents.
Transparency Measures Proposed
Police Cameras for Accountability
To enhance enforcement integrity, Pokpong advocated for mandatory police body cameras at checkpoints. This measure would promote transparency, ensuring fair application of the law and building public trust in the confiscation process, particularly in high-profile drunk driving cases.
Rules for Borrowed Vehicles
Owners’ Liability Clarified
Pokpong addressed cases involving borrowed vehicles, suggesting that owners unaware of the driver’s intoxication could reclaim their property. However, those who knowingly lend vehicles to drunk drivers should face forfeiture, reinforcing accountability for enabling dangerous behavior.
Government Supports Reckless Driving Charges
Prosecutors Urged to Act
Deputy government spokesman Karom Phonpornklang confirmed that the guidelines encourage prosecutors to pursue reckless driving charges under Section 43 of the Land Traffic Act. This legal framework strengthens the case for vehicle seizures, aligning with efforts to curb drunk driving nationwide.
