Although much of Asia enjoy the little cartoon kitty, Thailand police see “Hello Kitty” as a mark of shame. That is, now that they will have to wear a pink armband featuring “Hello Kitty” sitting on top of two hearts if they break any rules.

Thai police officers violating rules such as littering, being late to work, and parking violations will earn the chance to wear the Hello Kitty armband for one full day for all to see.

Apparently warnings and verbal communication have failed to keep the police officers in line, so the Crime Suppression Division in Bangkok decided to use humiliation as a way to force them to behave.

“(Hello) Kitty is a cute icon for young girls. It’s not something macho police officers want covering their biceps,” Pongpat said.

Just remember if you see an officer sporting one of these armbands, don’t tease or laugh at him. He is most likely a known rule breaker who is really pissed off.

(Sentinel Online)

By Aki Nakimura on 06-08-2007