Thailand Reveals Rules for USS Abraham Lincoln Sailors' Visit
Summary
Thai authorities set rules for about 5,000 American sailors from the USS Abraham Lincoln during their visit to Pattaya city. The sailors must follow local laws, avoid certain activities like cannabis use and parasailing, and face prosecution if they break the rules.Key Facts
- Around 5,000 U.S. sailors will visit Pattaya, Thailand, after 200 days at sea during a deployment related to the war with Iran.
- Pattaya city officials and U.S. Navy representatives met to arrange the visit and discuss behavior guidelines.
- Sailors cannot use recreational cannabis, enter cannabis shops or pharmacies, or take part in water-based activities.
- Certain streets, including the red-light district, are off-limits to U.S. sailors; they can visit Walking Street but must leave by 2 a.m.
- Thai law strictly prohibits insulting the monarchy, which can result in up to 15 years in prison.
- Vapes and e-cigarettes are illegal in Thailand, with penalties including jail time and heavy fines.
- Sexual exploitation concerns exist due to the city’s reputation, and local officials plan to increase police presence during the visit.
- The USS Abraham Lincoln strike group is expected to dock in Pattaya from September 2 to 6 before returning to the U.S.
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.