CHIANG MAI — A traffic police officer has been dismissed from service just days before his scheduled retirement, after being caught on camera extorting money from a foreign tourist near the Night Bazaar.
The incident occurred on September 24, 2025, when a bystander filmed the officer accepting cash from a foreign motorcyclist. The video quickly went viral on social media, sparking outrage and criticism of police corruption.
Police Lieutenant General Yutthana Kaenchan, Commander of Provincial Police Region 5, immediately ordered an investigation. The fact-finding committee concluded on September 27 that the deputy inspector had committed extortion, a serious disciplinary violation.
The case was forwarded to Chiang Mai Provincial Police with a recommendation for dismissal. Lt. Gen. Yutthana is expected to issue the official dismissal order shortly.
The timing of the incident has drawn significant public attention, as the officer was set to retire on September 30. His dismissal means he will lose all retirement benefits, including pension and healthcare entitlements normally granted to retired government officials.