Safety in Bangkok

Bangkok is a large, busy city with a comprehensive public-safety network. Save the emergency numbers, know how the city's CCTV system works, and follow a few simple precautions.

Emergency numbers

In an emergency, dial one of these numbers immediately. Tap a number on your phone to call.

191Police
Emergency report 1669Medical emergency
Ambulance 199Fire & rescue 1155Tourist Police 1300Missing person report 1178Immigration

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has installed CCTV cameras throughout the city to boost public safety and to help report and investigate crimes and traffic incidents. At transport connections the cameras use technology to detect suspicious people and objects.

62,000+CCTV cameras across Bangkok's 50 districts

7BMA CCTV service centres for footage requests

24 hoursto receive a digital file when you apply online

Where: intersections, public-transport hubs, important landmarks and some residential areas.
Purpose: deter crime, improve traffic management and support investigations after incidents.
Good to know: not every camera works at all times, footage quality varies with the camera and lighting, and privacy restrictions apply, especially in private areas.

How to request CCTV footage

The BMA allows access to footage for legitimate purposes. Requests can be made at a CCTV service centre or online. Apply as soon as possible — older footage may be overwritten by new recordings. See also the CCTV footage request guide.

File a police report at the police station that commands the area where the incident happened.
Prepare documents: the police report, a copy of your ID card and the request form. If someone applies for you, add a letter of proxy and a copy of the proxy's ID card.
Submit the request in person at one of the 7 BMA CCTV service centres, or online (see below).
Collect the footage at the same centre when it is ready, or receive a digital file within 24 hours for online applications.

CCTV service centres

City Hall (Sao Chingcha)Tel. 0 2224 2987, 0 2225 6972Mon–Fri, 8:30–16:30

Bang BonTel. 0 2405 2893–4

Bang PhlatTel. 0 2424 3200–1

Bang KhenTel. 0 2521 1975–6

Phra KhanongTel. 0 2331 0631–2

Min BuriTel. 0 2171 4235–6

RatchathewiTel. 0 2354 6179–80Daily, 6:00–22:00

Apply online

Submit your application and documents at cctv.bangkok or through the LINE account @CCTVBANGKOK. The BMA provides a digital file of the footage within 24 hours.

Safety tips for expats

Bangkok offers a great expat life, but like any large city it pays to take a few precautions.

👜Petty theftBag snatching and pickpocketing can happen in crowded areas or at night. Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.

🧾ScamsExpats may be targeted with overpriced rentals, fake language schools or gem scams. Research thoroughly before signing contracts or buying.

🚦TrafficLearn local traffic rules and cross streets with care. At night, consider ride-hailing apps (Grab) or metered taxis, especially if travelling alone.

🏠AccommodationChoose a safe neighbourhood and a building with good security. Many expat-friendly areas exist, such as Sukhumvit.

🏍️TransportUse ride-hailing apps or metered taxis. Avoid unbooked motorcycle taxis, especially at night.

🌃NightlifeBe cautious in nightlife areas, particularly when alone.

🙏CultureRespect Thai customs and dress modestly, particularly in religious places.

😷Air qualityAir pollution can be a concern in the dry season — see the Environment page for live data and advice.

Embassies

Contact details and locations for 79 embassies in Bangkok are on the Embassies page.

Safety