Police to patrol Valentine's day festivities in Thailand

Bangkok, Feb 14 (UNI) Thai police will patrol parks, motels and other public places to restrain underage couples from enjoying the Valentine's day more than what the law permits.

Parents of any couples under the age of 18 would be called if they were found beyond 2200 hrs.

The Children, Juveniles and Women Division agency has made elaborate arrangements to send police to patrol to motels and other night entertainment centres throughout the country to ensure owners do not allow underage lovers to check in for indulging in premarital sex-- something they are not allowed to do until they turn 18.

Motel operators found checking in minors, even unintentonally, face a maximum of three months imprisonment and/or a 30,000-baht fine, the Bangkok Post reported.

''I believe operators will give full cooperation,'' agency chief Wimol Pao-in was quoted by the paper as saying.

It will also be ensured that all public parks be properly lit.

''Student inspectors'' from the ministry of education will also join the effort.

UNI XC YA HT1305