/ 2 December 2005

Thai police investigate ‘too realistic’ guide book

Thai police have been asked to investigate the guide book Bangkok Inside Out after the government’s director of cultural monitoring, Ladda Tangsuphachai, reportedly found it too realistic.

The Kom Chad Luek newspaper said the book was criticised for discussing ”negative subjects such as fake goods, gambling, gay performances, touts and scams”. Most retailers have withdrawn the book, which has sold 4 000 copies.

The two authors, Israeli and Canadian south-east Asia experts, on Thursday apologised for any offence caused but said the book ”oozes enthusiasm” for the country. – Guardian Unlimited Â