Patong officials prefer dialogue after 150-person protest at Loma Park
About 150 people attended a symbolic protest in Patong, below the 500 expected by organisers, while officials said they preferred dialogue to further demonstrations.
About 150 people attended a symbolic protest organised by the Protect Phuket Land group at Loma Park in Patong on Friday, well below the 500 participants organisers had expected.
Patong Deputy Mayor Sanakorn Keesin said the municipality worked with Patong Police, Kathu District officials and provincial authorities to manage the event. Personnel were deployed to maintain safety and order, and the protest remained peaceful.
Mr Sanakorn said the municipality was not seeking further protests in the area. “Regarding whether we want such incidents to happen in the area, the municipality is not keen on that,” he said.
He said authorities routinely coordinate with police and other agencies when organisers request permission for gatherings. Officials assess the organisers, the purpose of the event, the expected attendance and potential security risks before deciding whether a gathering can proceed.
