Bangkok: Bangkok Metropolitan Police explained the image of police officers lining up to receive red envelopes, stating it's a Chinese New Year tradition as companies distribute them according to custom.
According to Thai News Agency, the Bangkok Metropolitan Police Command addressed the circulation of images and messages on social media dated February 16, 2026, depicting police officers receiving red envelopes (Ang Pao) in front of Prasat Thong Osoth Co., Ltd.
The command clarified that the event took place as specified in the images, with a representative from Prasat Thong Osoth Co., Ltd. elucidating that the red envelope distribution is a customary practice during the Chinese New Year festival. The company extended an invitation to the general public to partake in the tradition at the specified location, emphasizing that it was not directed at any particular individual. Police officers and officials from various agencies were encouraged to participate along with the public as a gesture of goodwill and morale enhancement. The act was purely traditional with no expectation of personal gain, and the gifts distributed adhered to legal value limits.
Additionally, the Bangkok Metropolitan Police Command has heightened preventative and suppressive measures to ensure public safety throughout the Chinese New Year festivities. The public is assured of their safety, with strict adherence to appropriate conduct and the prohibition of accepting illegal bribery or benefits.