An association of Bangkok cabdrivers filed a formal complaint with the Metropolitan Police over harsh new rules aimed at taxi drivers.

The new rules would fine a cabdriver 1,000 THB for refusing to take a fare. The public can also complain directly to police, who will take action.

BANGKOK – September 18, 2012 [PDN]: At the Metropolitan Police Bureau, Mr. Sadit Jaitiang, president of Taxis for Thais of Suvarnabhumi Association, representing 30 cabdrivers, came to file a complaint to Pol. Lt. Gen. Khamronwit Thupkrajang, the Commissioner of Metropolitan Police.

Mr. Sadit’s formal complaint was to protest the new penalty for taxi drivers who refuse passengers. The new rule, which took place September 1st, can fine a cabdriver 1,000 THB for refusing a fare.

In addition, the public can make their complaint directly to a police officer nearby, or by calling a special police hotline, or by using the police website. After receiving the complaint, the driver will be summoned by police for investigation and prosecution.

Previously, the public had to take their cabdriver complaints to the Department of Land Transport. The police also added 13 core measures that crack down further on cabdrivers. Mr. Sadit said taxi drivers are greatly affected by the new RULES. Many taxi drivers complained to the association, so he came to the police station to file the complaint.

Instead of just being told to follow new RULES without their input, the taxi association wants to see a compromise worked out among the three affected parties, consisting of the Department of Land Transport, the taxi drivers and the police officers. Mr. Sadit proposed that a meeting be held to discuss the measures that satisfy everyone, and then apply the revised RULES to be more fair to taxis.

Pol. Lt. Gen. Khamronwit said he will discuss the cabdrivers’ complaint in a meeting with Pol. Maj. Gen. Worasak Napasittiporn, the vice commissioner of Metropolitan Police, who is responsible for traffic.

Mr. Sadit also gave his support to Pol. Lt. Gen. Khamronwit, who has been targeted for blame by some people who believe that he is an ally of former prime minister Thaksin Shinnawatra. The former PM had previously decorated Pol. Lt. Gen. Khamronwit’s rank badge.

The police commander wanted to thank the cabdrivers for encouraging him. He said they do not have to worry, because he had no malicious intent to anybody, and he is not affiliated with any political party. He does not want to fight with the Democratic Party. He just wants justice. The commander said that if police officers who work for the people allow themselves to be bullied, then what would this whole country be like?

Pattaya Daily News