Thailand’s national police have come under public scrutiny following their decision to replace older patrol motorcycles with new Honda ADV-160 scooters, as concerns mount over budget efficiency and practicality. The procurement project, announced on 22 May 2025, has sparked debate over whether existing bikes could have been maintained instead.
Thailand’s Royal Police are facing questions from the public and online commentators over their decision to replace ageing patrol motorcycles with thousands of newly procured Honda ADV-160 scooters. The move, intended to support 24-hour patrol operations and align with government crime prevention priorities, was made public by Wasin Sirikiattikul, an advisor to the chairman of the parliamentary police committee, via social media on 22 May 2025.
The procurement plan outlines the acquisition of 14,442 units through an electronic bidding process, at an estimated cost of 1.88 billion baht. Officials argue that many of the existing motorcycles, now more than seven years old, no longer meet the operational demands of constant patrols. The new scooters are being selected for their compact design, agility in urban settings, and fuel efficiency—features considered vital for navigating Thailand’s congested roadways and narrow alleys.
However, critics have raised questions about the necessity and timing of the purchase. A prevailing view among commentators is that many of the existing CBR300 motorcycles remain functional and could be extended through routine maintenance and replacement of worn parts, potentially resulting in significant cost savings.
Scepticism also surrounds the decision-making process itself. Several detractors argue that top-level officials—those authorising the purchases—are disconnected from the day-to-day realities of frontline police work. This has led to broader conversations about policy implementation, resource allocation, and the communication gap between command and operational levels.
Though the initiative is framed as an effort to modernise equipment and improve public safety, the backlash highlights persistent public concerns about fiscal accountability and policy transparency within law enforcement institutions.
Photographs related to the procurement were published by Thai Rath.
Wasin Sirikiattikul, the advisor who disclosed the procurement details, is among the few officials who have commented publicly. Other involved parties and members of the police force have so far offered limited responses to the public criticism.
