Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Greg, Atlanta, GA — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:00:23 GMT

Well, if any of the higher-ups in their police force end up facing charges, we in the United States have a couple of empty Senate seats that need to be filled. Sounds like we have the perfect candidates in Thailand!

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Jalapeno Bob, Kempner, TX — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:01:43 GMT

Unfortunately, for most of the world, this is absolutely normal. Even in some parts of this country, this is commonplace. Corrupt government is the stuff of legend: Tammany Hall in New York City, Chicago, Louisiana parish sheriffs,... Just look in any college level American political science book. I would not be at all suprised if government corruption played a part in the failure of the state and Federal regulation of our financial system.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

P.G. Stuart, FLA — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:11:15 GMT

As much as love this country it will always be third world thanks to the notion that the general population will not take a stand against corruption. The greed of the elitists is second to none and comes at the expense of the poor souls. The govt and all of its workers, including any family of power, DO NOT CARE about their fellow citizens. It will never change.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

P.G. Stuart, FLA — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:12:11 GMT

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Michael, Medina, WA — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:22:15 GMT

Nothing new here. This has been going on for many years in Bangkok and the surrounding communities of Pattaya and Phuket. Corruption is rampant in the Kingdom of Smiles

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Christie, Baltimore MD — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:26:04 GMT

Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. This is no different than our own police force turning on their lights so they can drive through intersections without having to wait for red lights to turn. The real shame here is that the corruption and greed of the few mean the inevitable suffering of the many (hello Wall Street bailout, Enron, Madoff, etc.). This will never end. I've lost all hope for humanity...

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Te Doe — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:26:55 GMT

What? When did you find this out? Wow............. This is unbelievable.... Police payoffs? Corrupted police? In Thailand? No way, this cannot be true.............

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Fred54, Boston — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:28:08 GMT

Simple solution. Assess an "entertainment tax" on the bars sufficient to pay the police a decent wage. Then investigate the corruption. Throw a few of the
worst offenders in prison for a long time. The rest will see the light... It will save lives with a no
net cost to the industry. No brainer

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

NoMore Republicans — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:30:55 GMT

Corruption. In police departments? How about some news....

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Irwinicus — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:37:35 GMT

how do you think the drug business flourishes so well in the good old U.S.A. ??

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

kirsten boggs — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:41:49 GMT

pay offs is nothing new in this country.the rich gets rich and the poor gets poorer.money is more important than lives in this part of the world.police and firemen would stand and wait until someone puts money in their hands.i lived there for 18 years of my life and have witnessed it before

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

not stupid, Seattle area — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:42:57 GMT

Been to Thailand a LOT - it's all true.

Tea money is a FACT OF LIFE in Southeast Asia. The most interesting thing is that the police corruption is almost always directed at THAIS. IF you EVER thought that getting something done "legally" was difficult in the USA, try Thailand - you may NEVER get your task accomplished legally - just "get it done".

Remember - "It's always easier to get forgiveness than to get PERMISSION!" (might even cost less, too)

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Mike, Atlanta GA — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:45:11 GMT

Oh please, what's the big deal. SO... some poorly paid cops are trying to make some extra money. Now, if you REALLY wanted to go "big time", you'd auction off a Senate Seat!

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

kirsten boggs — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:46:45 GMT

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

not stupid, Seattle area — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 17:47:36 GMT

Thai police corruption is LEGEND in scale...

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

not stupid, Seattle area — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 18:01:48 GMT

entertainment tax? NO NET cost to the industry? Try the worst offenders?

ROFLMAO - you have NO IDEA of the Thai legal system.

The judiciary is NOT INDEPENDENT. The rules are s strange combination of French style law, Chinese la and old Thai customs (with a vague sprinkling of US style jurisprudence.)

NEVER EVER EVER try to take legal action against a police officer (yeah, you might get a low ranking officer, but the TOP of the local subsection? You would have a better chance of having a SNOWSTORM IN BANGKOK IN APRIL - for those who don't know - April is the HOTTEST month in Thailand) You need to remember the complex "arrangement" between the police and the judiciary (which is far to difficult to explain here)

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

cynical oldman — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 18:13:54 GMT

We have the same corruption here just at higher levels & they wear suits/pantsuits...kiss babies and go to church, put on a good face and call themselves Good - National leaders wonder why America acts like it does'nt care too much anymore ? It does'nt...we have to have news like the Thai tragedy to make us feel better, that we have higher standards ??? read news from a few years ago, we're the same no Better but maybe worse becase we have more opportunities to do things Right.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Dan...Fresno, Ca — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 18:19:12 GMT

I lived in Thailand for 3 years. If you are driving in Thailand keep 200 baht at all times ready and concealed in your sunvisor. If you get pulled over 200 baht ( ~ 6 usd at the time in 2002 ) will get you out of it. I learned the hard way when I got pulled over and all I had were 1000 baht notes in my wallet. ( ~ 30 at the time ). I had to hand over the 1000 note... but ended up getting an escorted motorcade down the street... I felt like the top mob boss after my donation...

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Dan...Fresno, Ca — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 18:19:30 GMT

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Daniel Syracuse NY — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 18:27:20 GMT

Man's basic nature is evil. Religion tries to make up for that. Laws try to change that. But, Man is greedy. Adam and Eve ate from the forbidden fruit and were punished. (We) have known for much time that Man cannot be trusted to "do the right thing" so, laws - be they secular or religious, a set in place with "punishment" the deterrent.

If Man is not (overly) concerned / fearful of the punishment for "evil" behavior then, "evil" is done, no matter what nation, what city, what town, what department, what person.

Police can be "criminals" with weapons and "authority." Unfortunately. Those persons we have entrusted to protect and serve often do not. The "Blue Brotherhood" protects its own and works to intimidate its police members who try to do good, try to serve and protect.

On one side of the fence I support "police" forces for the difficult job they have. On the other side of the fence though, I worry and fear for "us" because of "them."

Jaded? Maybe. But, my nephew is a patrol officer. The son of my good friend is a State corrections officer. Other friends of another friend, too, are corrections officers locally. I worry for them not just because of the scum that are in the populace generally but, also for the scum that are in the police forces (worldwide).

Who polices the police? Seems the police run amok.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

gump — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 18:33:18 GMT

First off my heart goes out to the families and loved ones of the deceased. Terrible way to go, imagine the bystanders outside, hearing the sheaks of death...

I hope this incident opens up a can of it, what a totally-irresponsible use of funds. Sound familiar?

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Prachuab — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 18:45:39 GMT

There will never be 'a proper investication of this corruption' for this carnage. The corruption in Thailand is not normal, but it is genetics and in their blood. This is the reason why I left Thailand almost 40 years ago. I have not seen it changed yet. It never be changed. So, those honest Thais who couldn't get out will either have to corrupt and cheat to survive or end up sufferring and be miserable. I can only feel sorry for those who are still making honest living. However, I don't give a damn for those dishonest people.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

say what? j.k don't care , Kansas USA — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 18:56:19 GMT

I don't care about foreign corruption, I want to know why deseret training isn't preformed at the border. The army could use the illegal immigrants as targets ( not for bullets!) to train on detainment. But they can use the drug runners for target practice. If I can google earth downtown Bahgdad, then that means uncle sam can google earth a live feed of anywhere, but if this is confirmed openly, then people will know they can put a stop to it. See they have programs to ( D.E.A.) to make it look like they're trying, but really drugs are a good way to keep minorities from prospering, even if it means some whites are gripped by it too, It's also a way to insure a number of "lower" class people who being born into poverty stricken drug infested hoods, are still good and will do the Labor. The good thing is that most of those good ole boys are dying and their son's are leaving office soon any way :)

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Ron Wichita KS — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 18:59:26 GMT

Fred 54 Boston, the no brainer is you. By implimenting a tax, all you're doing is kicking the "tea money" up the ladder. Do you think that the entire Thia govenment is clean as a whistle and only the cops are crooked. Please. The bigger fish would merely keep the money, and they've already skimmed plenty off the system. At least this way the cops who need the money get it.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

SFC Ron M SLC UT — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 19:08:46 GMT

If you think the club scene is bad, go check out the sweat shops and child prostitution parlors. Yikes!

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

lee ki — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 19:24:35 GMT

corruption? just keep to a minimum. its everywhere!!

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Dick Schwerin, Tustin Mi.. — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 19:29:23 GMT

do you think that greed isn't in the USA? Then look at the raise that the house and state senate took in Michigan a few years ago. 38%, and that was when as now the state was in the red. The rest of the state workers got 3% and had too bank 4 hours a pay. Yes greed corruption, etc. is everywhere. Oh yes, they got there vote by not voting to reject it. in other words a non vote means a yes vote.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Lauren, Sandy, UT — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 19:34:36 GMT

In a part of the world where you can pay a policeman 50$ to have him ignore a serious accident...if you want something done you have to be willing to pay (don't use the word "bribe") everyone you work with...an investigation lasts only until the culprit comes up with enough money to buy off the investigator...You are expected to do favors for your boss, or lose your job...no, it's not just the policemen and it's not isolated to those who are underpaid. Corruption is a way of life across much of the world.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Lauren, Sandy, UT — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 19:37:53 GMT

Fred54 - please note that any "tax" would go streight into the pockets of the rich. The police would never see it.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

john - san bernardino — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 19:43:07 GMT

Is it any surprise to anyone? Another country where basic laws take a backseat to state instituted corruption and kickbacks.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Curtis Gwin Jr.,Austin,Tx — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 19:43:41 GMT

I've lived in Thailand for the past 3years steadily and off and on for the past 15yrs. You just grin and bear it and pay up if you have to because the last thing you want is to have to deal with the real so called justice system! I've just finished a year long divorce mess which even tho it's final I'm am now emeshed in trying to get my own property back, like the customs system I'll probably have to payout thousands to get my property returned but there is little choice unless I want to spend several more years in the legal system!

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

randy stone — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 19:49:42 GMT

The Kingdom of Smiles has a long way to catch up to the corruption in america. I don't think they will
ever be able to bridge that huge gap. Hey, does
anyone know where I can buy a senate seat ? If not, I will just get a job as a crooked cop, which should
be very easy to do, seeing that 95% of them are corrupt. I remember the night club fire in the northeast where white lion was playing. deja vu.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Tongeincheek — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 19:54:15 GMT

Eight honest people on the boat!!! Can you believe that? All forms, any form of government would work very well if all men were Honest. How about you? or how long can you swim...?
I love you.....Tongeincheek

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Thai X SB, CA — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 20:01:04 GMT

Forget about Thailand, it's their problems. I lived and came from there. Just look at our financial failure today, it began from a president's coruption idea and our own government that led to this trouble housing market. The overall picture of police coruption in Thailand and our government is the same.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Jeremy, San Francisco — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 20:14:55 GMT

There are drawbacks to the Thai system, but there are also benefits. Thailand is not an overly litgious society. Because of the lack of regulations you have a sort of informality throughout Thai life that makes it a charming refreshing change from the strict regulations of the American system. The thousands of food vendors in Bangkok who provide food to nearly everyone are a perfect example. In the US those people would never be allowed to work because of health regulations, licensing, etc... Because of our litigious society, that once ubiquitous scene is now very uncommon.

Do people get sick from food vendors? Of course, but it's rare. And the vast vast majority of the time these discos are very safe. But if you tried regulating them the same way you did in the US, 99% of them would be shut down. The informal nature of things is why I love Thailand so much. It's unfortunate this happen, but the Thais shoudn't go overboard to fix it.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

David Pahrump, NV — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 20:28:09 GMT

Well an investigation would be great but wouldn't the ones doing the investigating be the police who are under suspicion? Kind of like Obama's camp saying they had no "inappropriate" contact with Gov. Blago in Illinois. Who's to define that them or an outside source?

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Laura, Bakersfield, CA — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 20:31:27 GMT

I had to laugh at many of your comments, everyone....you guy are right on! Fred54, you have an excellent idea, but baksheesh occurs everywhere...it's just a matter of degree...and power. The Thai police get tea money so they can feed their families...then they probably turn around and pay their tea money to their supervisors so they can keep their jobs....etc, etc. Americans call it graft and greed, because it isn't as prolific here as in other nations, but it's still here. We do some pretty strange stuff here too...pay our actors and our athletes millions of dollars more than our President...build roads & bridges that go nowhere so states can get a write-off...etc., etc...auction off Senate seats...ad nauseum.....

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

small world — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 20:43:33 GMT

Thailand has corruption? Well, What do expect form the classified Third world country? Tell me ..

Look at the First World country like us here in America. Do we recently have onessss. Senate seat for sale, Murdoff, Enron, those are big big time corrupt.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Ed, Stratham, NH — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 20:43:52 GMT

This is nothing new. I was stationed in Udorn in 1972-73 and if a girl, who was purchased by a Mama-san, ran away the cops would go after her and return her to the Mama-san. Of course the cops got paid for this service. When it was the birthday of the governor of a region all the bars, hotels, jewelry stores, tailor shops, etc, were expected to pay in for his birthday gift. During the early 70s if you made a dollar a day you were doing great. I can only imagine what life transition to when the US pulled out of Thailand in the mid-seventies. Thailand really opened my eyes to the value of a person's life.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

M. franz Independence, Oregon — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 20:52:46 GMT

Having lived in Thailand, I am well aware of Police payoffs. In Thailand, a "Farang" is often accused of small infractions such as crossing a street illegally...(I experienced this and had to pay the policeman before I went on my way) Another experience was riding in my Thai friend's car; she was pulled over for an illegal turn. She simply gave the policeman 300 baht...we drove off! However, when it comes to payoffs in issues where lives are at stake, the Thai government must be held responsible; hopefully, this will encourage the Thai tourist industry to demand more enforcement in safety issues. In turn, this will help the local population that deals with ongoing corruption.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Caligirl, CA — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 21:04:39 GMT

I went back to Thailand for a summer break one year. My friend's dad was driving and we got stop by the cops. My friend's dad handed him 200 baht under his driver license. The cops didn't even look at the license, he counted the money and handed 100baht back to my friend's dad. The cops said "we caught a lot of people today, so I'll only take half the money".

That's Thailand for you...

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Maggie Vincent, Newton, IA — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 21:21:47 GMT

Does anyone know where there is a list of victims. I have not heard from my brother who is an oil field worker in Saudi but has a wife and home in Thailand. My last contact with him was when he called 12/24, his Christmas Day, my Christmas Eve. Please send info to MVinc10560@yahoo.com if such a list is available. My prayers are for all the survivors and families of the victims, as this is a very tragic start to a New Year.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Beth E. Boston MA — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 21:33:46 GMT

Try looking in America-hello... half the cops in Providence are working for the mob

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

D, Philadelphia, PA — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 22:04:54 GMT

today, 4 palestenian children were found in Gaza on their mothers dead bodies, after those moms were shot by israeli soldiers guns, inside their home, 4 days ago, they were found today crying out of hunger and cold... this is toooo much, those are not Hamas, and they were shot intentionally.. what friendship are you talking about??

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Daniel, Portland, OR — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 22:28:14 GMT

Jeremy - I agree 100%. I live there last year and overall, I was more happy there than here.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Roland — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 22:35:45 GMT

Pyrotechnics in an enclosed building with flamable materials in the ceilings and carpets - that is what created the disaster. Not doing that is really pretty much a no-brainer, and if you are somewhere that is doing it, start looking for an exit and get out before the stampede that starts the moment fire is detected.

Corrupt cops and no meaningful regulation only aggravate the problem, which really boils down to a lack of common sense all around.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Kevin San Diego Ca — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 22:45:56 GMT

To Randy Stone: Uh, that bands name is "Whitesnake", not "white lion".

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

chgo ticket, chgo il — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 22:54:36 GMT

many of us have read about corrupt cops in the USA. therefore why should anyone be suprised that there are corrupt cops in other countries. probably the only country that doesn't have corrupt cops is a country that doesn't have any cops.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Randy — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 01:44:56 GMT

My ex wife was a thai police Caption, I was with her when she would collect the money from bussiness, in return the police turned the other cheek,
I brought her to USA and she was turning tricks when I was at work, "noted ex wife" corroption is way of life in Thailand , most views of thai is easier to ask forgiveness if you get caught, but lie until you get caught in the lie

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

J D Missoula, Montana — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 01:48:51 GMT

I lived in Thailand on and off for 10 years.
I am all too familiar with the corruption which is in nearly everything. The difference in the US is IMHO, that the corruption level is about the same but it is only OK if you have a lot of money. In Thailand even the poor can participate, unlike the USA.
davidp

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Raven Sati, Bangkok — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 01:49:33 GMT

As an American who has lived in Bangkok for 17 years, I think it is accurate to say that there is no one who is succesful here who is honest, everyone knows it, and each has a rarionalization for their own crooked behavior and participation (like Jeremy above). Thai X SB, CA who posted above is right, the disheartening nastiness and animal level meanness of Bush and company smells, sounds and looks just the same as what happens in Thailand. And Laos, Vietnam, Myanmar, Malaysia, Singapore, and China are all a lot worse than Thailand. At a time when mankind is stupidly insisting on destroying the biosphere and itself, how could it be any different ? The idiotic grin of George W Bush is on the face of almost every Thai, it's why it is called The Land of Smiles.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Del gronnob Kingman Az — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 02:02:26 GMT

The Philippine police in angeles city are as corept as they come they target every one and tourests more so than most.But it is the same in the USA

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Donald, New York, New York — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 02:19:20 GMT

If you ever look at the tangled telephone & electrical wires all around Bangkok, then you get a sense of what the legal system is like there. Kind of chaotic & beautiful at the same time. Kind of like what Jeremy is going on about. After growing up in the west & being of open mind & spirit; I kind of need it to clear
my head (I pretty much visit every six months) & come back with a different perspective on things.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

joe butcher — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 02:42:16 GMT

life has little to no meaning in much of the world...the authorities could give a sh^t less if 54 people died in thaat club or 5400...I have some experience in a neighboring Asian country and its the same there too...cops are bigger crooks than the crooks themselves and the higher up the chain of command you go the more crooked/criminal they become...sorta like we have in the Congress and White House...and you can bet they crashed the US financial markets...

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Married in Thailand, Mobile, Alabama — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 03:09:17 GMT

I've visited Thailand for about a month. I met a few Americans there and many other foreigners there. All of which loved the place. It's a beautiful country. The people are awesome. Thailand will always hold a special place in my heart. Some news becomes transparent at times but when Thailand is in the news it always grabs my attention. Many other people must feel the same way because they thrive off of their tourism. I hate that such a tragedy has happened there. My prayers and thoughts go out for all of the families and the business owner. I'm sure he/she didn't want or expect that to happen. Corruption is everywhere, no matter where you live and whether it be a baht or a dollar, I'm sure if the amount is high enough it can get you out of any sticky situation. Who says money doesn't make the world go around?

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Sandy Smith, Phoenix, Arizona — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 03:21:31 GMT

First I too would like to say I'm so sorry for the people who died and their families. But I'm really surprised to even see this article... you cannot look at this from a westerners point of view. We lived in THailand for about 6 years and other countries in Asia as well. What some of your bloggers say is very true, about the corruption everywhere, monye means everything, etc.. and on the other hand.. it's not about rules etc.. there.. the rules are ALL different.. nothing in these countries is built to code or correctly... you walk down the street and see wires hanging out all over the place and not just in Thailand.... in many developing countries and some that are further along than that.. it's the way of things.. AMerica has plenty of it's own corruption to be sure.. but there are some checks and balances and at least some recourse and expectation of something different... this is not at all surprising.. just very sad.. and throwing a few "corrupted" people into jail will not solve it at all.. because it's the way everything is done there.. bribes etc.. Try China as well. same thing.. how do you think we ended up with all the "melamine scandal" in the news etc... same thing... it's a completely different way of life.. and yet.. we have our scandals and such as well. Hard to understand uless you have lived there.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Sawadee — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 03:40:35 GMT

Fire works in a palce that has carpeting on the floor and serves Alcohol? Fireworks in a building that the owners knew didnt have sprinklers or fire exits? If you ask me first and foremost the owners may have paid the police to be open but the police didn't say to use fireworks in the place that didnt have anysafety precaustions. THe owners of this club bear all responsibility for these deaths. They knew what they owned!

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Royalwapiti, Iowa — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 03:55:24 GMT

I don't think you folks understand the extent of corruption in Thailand, it is everywhere from the lowest police officer to the top of govt. Yea we have Louisana and Chicago with rampant fraud and corruption but it isn't everywhere all across our country at all levels. There might be a single jerk working for the city of Cedar Rapids, IA scheming some flood victims but it isn't the whole city police, fire, welfare, water, streets departments. Not like Thailand.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Ted, Bloomington, IN — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 03:56:35 GMT

Were your closing comments directed towards Thailand or Illinois?

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

Sawadee, Washington, DC — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 04:00:23 GMT

First, no matter if the police are corrupt, the owners knew the club they opened was fire safe. IF teh club owners handed out "sparklers " to guests and if they allowed fireworks in the club, then no matter what they paid to the police to stay open the club owners aare the ones that are guilty for the tragedy that ensued. The club owners knew what they had and didnt have in place for safety!

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

SoCal Native Sean, Newport Beach, CA — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 04:30:26 GMT

all of you farangs that talk about you lived their blah blah blah, no one has said anything about Thaskin the former PM. the walked with....Dr Evil.....Billions and flew it out on a Thai commercial airliner. Bottom line in thailand, like Mexico used to be, you pay the first cop off for a very small fee, and all is fine. in our good old usa, you pay, your lawyer, the judicial system, sometimes their lawyer, sometimes pay and still do time, taxes....think about it. the land of smiles has a much better quality of life, the people accept it, live with it, and still are hospitable. can you say the same about the US? too many people here, too many takers looking for a handout, can you say illegal immigrant.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

buddha sanook, patong, phuket, thailand — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 04:42:28 GMT

payoffs to the cops here are part of the fabric of life. motorbike violations. want to keep the bar open til 5 a.m. assault charges. vehicular homicide. all no problem if one has the cash to buy their way out. if you can pay the cops and thrown a cash bone to the victims or their families, you walk. they consider these supplements as part of their salary.

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

john hender gaithersburg Md — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 08:54:11 GMT

Nothing will happen to these owners of the club most thai places you go in are death traps. i have been to thailand 17 times always the same. everybody else move forward they stay the same. the most important concept is face. The police are a joke i have had to pay a couple of times. they make things worse just watch them direct traffic i thought about this yesterday i think that thailand would be better off if the police just quit
also not mention is the police own some of the clubs i am next to one of the thai police stations and everyone breaks the law like it not even there. Thai have it taught from a young age that you can break the law and it means nothing. There is no rule of law if you are a thai if you are Farang they throw the book at you it is just better to pay. just llok at the traffic the only place worse is vietnam which is a whole different story I love thailand but they will never be a Korea or japan it just wont happen
Everything is fake here you just accept it and try to move on .Know you will get screwed every chance they get .there are many good thai but there are also lots of bad ones.
Everywhere i go i look for exits and try to be aware of my surrounding. You have to be real careful in thailand your safety is not important. Life is cheap i have seen people hit by cars and left on the road while the driver sppeds off.
When you are in thailand you are on your own. Lot of people are out to take advantage of you every single second you are here.
i love thailand you just have to accept for what it is .thailand will not change however if you arent careful it will change you

Bangkok inferno puts spotlight on police payoffs

AT, Pennsylvania — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 12:03:17 GMT

I like Jeremy's comment. The differnces between the US system and the Thai system rest on accountability for the losses. In the US we put the responsibility on a bureaucratic system that we know has it's own forms of veiled corruption, but, works to a degree and keeps the majority safe without personal accountability. In the Thai system, when a tradgedy like this happens, individual club goers may be more wary of where they go from now on and assume the responsibility for their choices. Therefore, a club that looks risky will have less customers and will not be able to stay in business for long. Of course, the Thai cop who cannot collect "tea money" from a business that is failing will put pressure on that establishment to change their risk factor or go out of business and be replaced by a new tennant.

In the end, there will unfortunately always be some tragedies in both systems.