Authorities in Phetchaburi have introduced guidelines for gambling at buffalo racing events following the recent legalisation of betting on traditional buffalo races. The move comes after Thailand’s Royal Gazette published ministerial regulations on 10 October 2024, permitting gambling on buffalo races under the Gambling Act.
The new regulation aligns with local customs, such as the night-time buffalo races known as wu laan, which are popular in Phetchaburi Province. Under the law, races where betting is allowed can only take place between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. Provincial governors have been instructed by Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to ensure strict compliance with the new rules, with an emphasis on promoting tourism, generating employment, and preserving local traditions.
At a meeting held at the old provincial hall, Deputy Governor Wanpen Mangsi, acting on behalf of the governor, chaired discussions alongside Deputy Governors Pakapat Songwattanayuth and Lertchai Sakolsaovapak. The meeting, attended by district chiefs, police officers, representatives from livestock groups, and other stakeholders, focused on defining clear operational guidelines for buffalo racing events.
Key guidelines for gambling events
Permit Conditions:
Each event requires a permit (Form P.N.2/1), valid for a single occasion, with a fee of 200 baht. Permit holders must comply with all relevant laws, with a memorandum attached to the permit specifying the legal obligations.
Site Inspections:
A committee, including district chiefs or their representatives and relevant agencies, will conduct venue inspections before granting permits.
Venue Plans:
Applicants must submit a detailed event plan, including maps of the venue.
Standards and Compliance:
The province is committed to improving racing venue standards in line with government policy, promoting tourism and economic growth while preserving the traditional aspects of buffalo racing.
Disease Control:
Guidelines for disease prevention and control will be provided by the Provincial Livestock Office, ensuring adherence to the Animal Epidemic Act, B.E. 2558.
Addressing Violations
Authorities have outlined penalties for violations at buffalo racing events:
- One-year ban for incidents involving fatalities or serious criminal activity.
- Six-month ban for possession of weapons or drug-related offences.
- One-month ban for alcohol sales, consumption, or animal mistreatment resulting in death.
Deputy Governor Wanpen Mangsi underscored the importance of buffalo racing in Phetchaburi’s cultural identity, noting that the events generate income for farmers and other related professions. She added that the government’s decision to regulate race hours aligns with traditional practices, and the province will work closely with stakeholders to address issues such as crime, drug use, and youth misconduct, ensuring events run smoothly and lawfully.
Additional Guidelines from the Ministry of Interior
The new regulation, outlined in Regulation No. 46, includes the following measures:
- Secure Perimeters: Venues must have clearly defined boundaries, with structures ensuring safety.
- Entrance Screening: Organisers must conduct thorough checks to prevent firearms, drugs, or illegal substances from entering the venue. Measures must also be in place to prevent infectious disease transmission among attendees.
- Law Enforcement Presence: Administrative officers and police will monitor events to maintain order.
- Security Measures: Adequate security personnel and operational CCTV systems must be in place.
- Hygiene Facilities: Venues must provide proper lighting and sanitary restrooms.
- Prohibition of Unauthorised Gambling: Event organisers are responsible for preventing any unauthorised gambling on-site.
- Alcohol Ban: Alcohol sales and consumption are prohibited within the venue.
- Animal Welfare: Organisers must enforce strict rules to prevent animal cruelty.
- Animal Disease Prevention: Measures must be in place to control the spread of animal diseases.
In cases of non-compliance, authorities have the discretion to revoke permits temporarily or permanently. Permits will only be granted for events that adhere to local customs, with restrictions in place for national and religious holidays, as determined by the Ministry of Interior.