Hat yai: Police Region 9 has issued an apology for using a backhoe to move vehicles that were obstructing traffic and emergency routes in Hat Yai City. They have also committed to taking responsibility for any damage caused to the owners of the 10 vehicles involved.
According to Thai News Agency, the incident occurred during the ongoing efforts to manage the aftermath of the flood disaster in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province. The flooding had resulted in numerous vehicles being left stranded or swept into positions that blocked essential routes. Since November 27, 2015, Provincial Police Region 9 has been appealing to vehicle owners to clear the roads to facilitate traffic flow and ensure that emergency services can operate effectively. However, as of November 29, 2015, some vehicles continued to block traffic at critical points such as the Rong Poon Intersection and in front of the Khlong U-Tapao Bridge, causing severe congestion and hindering emergency response efforts.
On November 29, 2015, police officers enlisted the help of a backhoe operator passing through the area to clear the road. The backhoe was used to push the vehicles to the side, allowing emergency vehicles to pass and improving overall traffic flow. Police Region 9 has expressed regret for any damage caused during this process and assured vehicle owners that they are prepared to take responsibility for any harm done.
In addressing the situation, Police Region 9 clarified that no vehicles were moved out of the vicinity. They were only repositioned within a 300-meter radius to ensure smoother traffic flow. The police have also stated that if vehicle owners do not come forward to claim or move their vehicles, further relocation will be undertaken. Vehicles may be moved to the Hat Yai Municipal Stadium or the parking lot of the Prince of Songkla University International Convention Center for safekeeping.