Bangkok: The final push for intensified New Year enforcement has led to a noticeable decrease in drunk driving cases, highlighting the importance of continued monitoring of road accidents to ensure public safety. The Department of Probation is prepared to maintain its efforts in facilitating safe travel for citizens returning to the bustling city of Bangkok.

According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Lt. Col. Piya Raksakul, Director-General of the Department of Probation, provided statistics on the number of cases that entered the probation process during the New Year festival. As of January 4, 2026, the sixth day of the heightened enforcement measures, 813 cases were recorded, with a significant 774 cases (95.20%) related to driving under the influence of alcohol and 39 cases (4.80%) involving driving under the influence of drugs.

The cumulative number of cases over the 6-day period from December 30, 2025, to January 4, 2026, stood at 3,936. This included 3,731 cases (94.79%) of driving under the influence of alcohol, 4 cases (0.10%) of reckless driving, 199 cases (5.06%) of driving under the influence of drugs, and 2 cases (0.05%) of reckless driving. Compared to the same period last year, which recorded 1,542 cases of drunk driving, this year's enforcement saw a reduction by 768 cases, reflecting the effectiveness of the intensified measures.

The provinces with the highest number of drunk driving cases were identified as Nonthaburi with 341 cases, followed by Bangkok with 290 cases, and Samut Prakan with 233 cases. The decrease in cases showcases the impact of the enforcement measures implemented during this festive season.

In the final days of enforcement, the Director-General visited and motivated officers on duty while aiding in the facilitation of travel for those returning to Bangkok. This took place at the Bang Pahan rest area on Highway 32, kilometer 42, in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province. Safety measures were emphasized, and probation offices nationwide were instructed to collaborate with relevant agencies and probation volunteers. Activities included having probationers assist travelers at public service units, both at main and community checkpoints, and engaging in cleaning and landscaping of 22 high-risk areas. A total of 246 people participated in these efforts to prevent and reduce road accidents during the New Year's holiday 2026.