Thailand beach parties banned after British backpacker murders
Thailand beach parties have been banned in a bid to improve the country's image following the brutal murders of British backpackers Hannah Witheridge and David Miller.
According to the Evening Standard, police have removed posters advertising such events at popular tourist spots in Thailand, which attract thousands of British travellers each year.
However, the famous full moon party at Koh Panghan will still go ahead as authorities say it is "well organised".
Chatpong Chatputhi, governor of Surat Thani province which includes Koh Tao, said all beach parties would be banned with the exception of a Full Moon Party on Phangan island, following negative publicity after the murders.
According to the Daily Mail, he told Reuters: "We've reached a point where we need to clean up the image of tourism in the province including beach parties that can get out of control and lead to violence.
"This is aimed at tourists' safety. Sometimes these parties are held at secluded locations that are difficult to reach and where we cannot offer adequate protection."
The bodies of Hannah, 23, (pictured) and David, 24, were found on a beach on the island of Koh Tao on 15 September.
They had headed to a secluded stretch of beach after a night out together, and were both beaten to death with a garden hoe.
Two migrant Burmese workers have been arrested over their deaths, but the police investigation has been tainted by suspicion that the pair may have been tortured during investigation.
According to the Samui Times, security is being stepped up in Thailand, with Prawut Thawornsiri, spokesman of the National Police Office, saying police chief Pol Gen Somyot Pumpanmuang had instructed police officers across the country to ensure the safety of tourists as Thailand heads into high season.
He said better records must be kept of the number of people arriving as well as where they stay during their visit.
Volunteers are also being recruited to help the police maintain order in popular destinations.
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