Possessing or Distributing Drugsĭrugs are illegal in most countries and Thailand has especially strict laws on possession and distribution of narcotics. Media are monitored closely by the censorship panels and if you criticize current government in any way, your post or even website will be taken down and you may be imprisoned. Whether you’re saying it in public or posting a potentially critical message online, be aware that speaking your mind may be dangerous in Thailand. Expressing Opinions That May Criticize the Military This is a criminal offence is punishable by a prison sentence of 3 to 15 years and more. Also avoid any critical comments about the Royal family of Thailand. If you become known for your active political position, you may get arrested and labelled problematic. Being Labelled as ProblematicĪvoid expressing your opinion on any political matters, especially regarding political situation in Thailand. This sign means the silent protest against the military leaders who took over Thailand in a coup in May of 2014, banned the protests and instituted martial law. Making Three-Finger SaluteĪ simple gesture of putting three fingers together – the salute adopted from the “Hunger Games” trilogy can reportedly get you arrested. Read also: 14 Things That Will Surprise First-Time Visitors to Thailand 5. So be respectful and dispose of you gum and other litter properly using a suitable bin, or carry it with you until you find one. If you try to avoid a fine, you may end up in jail. It seems obvious that throwing your gum on the street is bad in any country but if you do this in Thailand and get caught you'd face a pretty hefty fine of around £400. Throwing used chewing gum on the pavement can also get you in trouble. After the gatherings of more than 5 people were banned, such parties have become a chance for people to gather and discuss different matters including the military coup. While eating sandwiches is not illegal per se, but senior police chief has said that they are watching sandwich-eaters closely after the “sandwich parties” organised via social media became popular. Make sure you, your family, friends or fellow travellers don’t gather in a group of six people, otherwise you may get the attention of the army and end up being arrested. Violation of this law is punishable by at least 1 year imprisonment. Gathering in Groups of More Than Five PeopleĪfter the military coup ousted the government of Thailand on 22 May, 2014, the army has banned any gatherings of more than five people. You should also forget about playing “Tropico 5” game in this country, as in fears it may present a threat to Thailand’s national security Cultural Ministry has banned the game.

So if you were planning to enjoy this as your holiday read during your trip to Thailand, then you might want to reconsider.

“1984” – the classic novel by George Orwell is banned the Kingdom of Thailand, as this very book has become a symbol of protest against the current military regime in the country. Reading “Wrong” Books & Playing “Wrong” Games Also if you loss travel documents or money, unless you have your passport with you at the time of reporting it, you can get arrested and be taken to a police station. Thai police can ask you to produce you passport at will. Being Unable to Show Passport on Requestįirst and foremost, you need to carry passport with you at all times in Thailand. Before you set off on a journey to one of the world’s most popular travel destinations, make sure you know which steps can get you arrested in Thailand. While some would have known the risk they were taking, others were clueless of the local regulations. Every now and then we hear about tourists getting arrested and put in jail for what seems to be a minor matter in the western world. The Kingdom of Thailand – an exotic paradise on Earth with a booming tourist industry – is surprisingly infamous for its colourful political landscape and strict unforgiving laws.

Tropico 5 military coup