(Newswire.net — October 1, 2014) — “When tourists check into a hotel they will be given a wristband with a serial number that matches their ID and shows the contact details of the resort they are staying in, so that if they’re out partying late and, for example, get drunk or lost, they can be easily assisted,” minister Kobkarn said.
“The next step would be some sort of electronic tracking device but this has not yet been discussed in detail.” she said.
The program came about after two British backpakesr were found beat to death on the island of Koh Tao in the Gulf of Thailand, on September 15.
The body of David Miller, 24, and Hannah Witheridge, 23, were found with severe head trauma and drowning symptoms.
Approximately 150 police officers were posted to the island to boost the force’s reach. However, it appears officers are no closer to a suspect, despite a number of leads being reported and CCTV tapes being released.
Though its bound to help, Kobkarn admitted the wristband idea had already met some resistance.
“Most people welcome the idea but some hotels are concerned that tourists may not want to wear the wristbands.”
Limiting party hours on some of Thailand’s islands and imposing restrictions over where beach parties could be held were also being considered, said Kobkarn. The idea is unlikely to go down well with hoards of young backpackers who travel to Thailand each year.
Tourism represents nearly 10% of Thailand’s GDP.