Bangkok officer suspended after pulling passenger off a bike during a high-risk stop gone wrong. PATTAYA, Thailand – Foreign visitors renting motorcycles or riding pillion in Pattaya often find it an easy and fun way to explore the city. However, what many don’t realize is that failing to wear a helmet — whether as a driver or a passenger — can now lead to steep fines and serious injury, especially in light of Thailand’s newly strengthened traffic laws. As of June 1, 2025, under Section 122 of the Land Traffic Act, the Thai government increased penalties to improve road safety. The law now mandates that both riders and passengers on motorcycles must wear helmets at all times. If a passenger is caught without a helmet, the fine is up to 2,000 baht. For the driver, the penalty doubles to 4,000 baht for allowing someone to ride without a helmet. These new regulations apply nationwide, and Pattaya police have begun setting up roadside checkpoints to enforce them. While the law aims to protect lives, a recent and shocking incident in Bangkok has ignited fierce public debate over how it’s enforced. On June 12, a dramatic scene unfolded near MBK Center, one of the capital’s busiest intersections. A traffic officer from Pathumwan Police Station attempted to stop a food delivery rider suspected of a traffic violation. In a dash to intercept, the officer ran across the road and forcibly grabbed the motorcycle — but in doing so, accidentally yanked a young female passenger off the back. She struck her head hard on the pavement and lay motionless in the middle of the street. The officer also fell, but quickly got up and continued pursuing the rider. The incident was captured on a dashcam and posted on social media, drawing massive criticism. Many questioned whether such an aggressive tactic was justified, especially since it resulted in a serious injury to an uninvolved civilian. Pol. Col. Sirichart says officer acted to prevent danger at notorious intersection, but admits tactic clearly crossed the line In response, Pol. Col. Sirichart Chanpromma, superintendent of Pathumwan Police, acknowledged that the officer’s actions violated proper protocol. Although the officer — a Lance Corporal — had good intentions in trying to uphold the law, he used the wrong approach, said the commander. The officer is now under disciplinary review, and a formal inquiry has been launched. In the meantime, he has been temporarily relieved from all traffic-related duties due to both his injuries and the investigation. Pol. Col. Sirichart explained that this intersection has been the scene of multiple red-light violations and even a serious accident where a motorcyclist was struck and severely injured. The officer’s goal, he said, was to “cut off the danger at its source” — but the method clearly crossed the line. For foreigners exploring Pattaya’s vibrant beach roads and backstreets, wearing a helmet isn’t optional — it’s the law. Enforcement has intensified across Thailand, including in tourist cities like Pattaya, where helmet checkpoints are now common. But more importantly, the Bangkok incident is a reminder that how police enforce the law can carry its own risks. Tourists should avoid renting from shops that don’t provide helmets and refuse rides from drivers who do not offer one. Always check for insurance coverage when renting a bike, and understand that while Thailand is welcoming, traffic regulations are now being enforced more aggressively — sometimes controversially. Ultimately, safety is the goal — but knowing your rights and responsibilities as a foreign visitor is your best protection. Helmet crackdowns across Thailand mean hefty fines for both riders and passengers — tourists included.