Section 137 — Power to hold persons at scene
Statutory text (Thai original)
พนักงานสอบสวนขณะทำการอยู่ในบ้านเรือนหรือสถานที่อื่น ๆ มีอำนาจสั่งมิให้ผู้ใดออกไปจากที่นั้น ๆ ชั่วเวลาเท่าที่จำเป็น
English translation
While an inquiry official is performing his duties in a dwelling or other place, he has the power to order that no person leave that place for such time as is necessary.
This English translation is provided for reference only and has not yet been firm-verified — always rely on the Thai original.
Firm annotation
This short provision in Chapter 1 (Ordinary Inquiry) gives the inquiry official a temporary containment power at the scene: while performing duties in a dwelling or other place, he may order people not to leave for as long as is necessary. It is a practical support for on-scene work such as searches, examinations, and questioning under Sections 132 and 133, and it is limited by the words for such time as is necessary, so it does not authorize open-ended detention. It should be read together with the general rules on arrest and custody, which govern any longer deprivation of liberty.
Why this matters in practice
If police are lawfully working at a scene, they can tell you to stay put for a short, necessary time, and leaving against that order can obstruct their work. The power is temporary and tied to necessity, not a licence to detain you indefinitely; any longer hold must rest on the arrest and custody rules. If you are unsure whether you were held lawfully at a scene, keep note of the times and book a consultation with a Thai lawyer.
Frequently asked questions
Can police stop me from leaving a house while they investigate?
Yes. Section 137 lets the inquiry official, while performing duties in a dwelling or other place, order that no one leave for such time as is necessary.
How long can that order to stay last?
Only for such time as is necessary to carry out the duties at the scene. The power is temporary and does not authorize indefinite detention, which is governed by the arrest and custody rules.