Seven French tourists were arrested and fined by Phuket police last night (Wednesday) for causing a nuisance to motorists, residents and other tourists in the Patong area.

Patong police decided to take action after they received complaints from residents and motorists that the group frequently cruised the streets of the Patong area on motorcycles and occasionally revved up their engines, creating a loud noise and emitting excessive exhaust.

Pol Col Suchin Nilbodi, the superintendent of Patong police, said last night that the motorcyclists were arrested and each of them fined for causing a nuisance.

He also called on motorcycle rental services to warn their customers to refrain from causing a nuisance, adding that police will tighten up on traffic discipline to maintain the image of Phuket.