The Royal Thai Police have announced that any retail or wholesale sale of alcohol on Makha Bucha Day, falling on Wednesday, February 12, will be subject to legal penalties.

According to the police, violations could result in up to six years imprisonment and fines of up to 10,000 baht.

Pol Col Worasak Pisitbannakorn, acting commander of the police’s Public Affairs Division, stated that the restriction applies to all forms of alcoholic beverages sold across the Kingdom, except for those available in airport duty-free shops.

The ban is set to be in effect for a 24‐hour period, commencing at midnight on February 11 and ending at midnight on February 12.

The alcohol sale prohibition is one of several measures implemented during five Buddhist holidays in Thailand.

In addition to Makha Bucha Day, the other designated days include Visakha Bucha Day, Asarnha Bucha Day, Buddhist Lent Day, and End of Buddhist Lent Day.

Deputy police chief Pol Gen Prachuap Wongsuk confirmed that law enforcement officers have been directed to maintain public order among devotees visiting temples to observe the holiday.

He added that officers would enforce the alcohol sale ban strictly.

Members of the public are advised to report any violations or seek assistance by contacting police hotlines at 191 or 1599.