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104-415: In regard to who is chief: as of 24 June 2024, the prime minister "has yet to approve Torsak's reinstatement. Earlier that month, media said that Torsak Sukvimol has been reinstated as national police chief. Earlier (20 March 2024), Kitrat Panphet became acting police chief; however, Torsak Sukvimol is still the police chief while having been transferred to an inactive post at the primeminister's office; on

208-664: A bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from Chulalongkorn University , followed by a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Massachusetts Amherst . He further advanced his academic credentials by earning a Master of Business Administration, specialising in Finance, from Claremont Graduate University . Srettha began his professional journey at Procter & Gamble as an assistant product manager,

312-491: A coalition with Palang Pracharath and United Thai Nation , citing their roles in the 2014 coup . Following the election on 14 May, Pheu Thai emerged as the party with the second-highest number of seats, trailing behind the Move Forward Party . The party then formed a coalition with Move Forward and six other parties. However, in the first round of parliamentary voting on 13 July, Pita Limjaroenrat , Leader of

416-400: A coalition with BJT, saying that he aims to introduce cannabis laws within six-months. In November 2023, a draft bill seeking to restrict cannabis use failed. On 8 May 2024, Srettha announced he wished to see cannabis relisted as a narcotic by the end of 2024, restricting it to medical use only. He justified the policy U-turn by saying that drugs "destroys the future of the country." In July,

520-478: A complaint with the deputy commissioner-general of police, Surachate Hakparn , seeking an investigation into Srettha's 2019 land purchase in Bangkok. Chuwit accused Srettha and Sansiri of tax evasion. In response to these allegations, Srettha filed a defamation lawsuit for ฿500 million against Chuwit, specifically regarding comments made during a press conference on 3 August. The 2013–2014 Thai political crisis

624-503: A decade were detrimental to businesses and advocated for the Bank of Thailand to reduce these rates. The Governor of the Bank of Thailand held a different view. He disagreed with the characterisation of the economic state as a crisis. Furthermore, he expressed scepticism about the effectiveness of the government's short-term stimulus measures and argued that these measures would not address

728-417: A disconnect between the project's intentions and public perception. He also acknowledged that the government 's communication with international investors about the project's economic potential could have been more effective. Srettha worked actively on revitalising Thailand's tourism sector. On 25 September, tourists from China and Kazakhstan were exempted from tourist visas, aligning this policy change with

832-402: A former massage parlour magnate turned legislator, "police reform" is a never-ending mantra which never produces results. The "cash-for-jobs" culture within the police is too deep to uproot, he says, alleging that low-ranking officers earning just US$ 460 a month tap the public for bribes, or solicit protection money from dodgy businesses to top up their salaries and buy promotions. "Rank and status

936-502: A frequent target of criticism from expatriates who decry slow service, inconsistent application of regulations, and excessive filing of paper forms. Referring to just one of scores of immigration forms, the TM6 Arrival-Departure Card, Kobsak Pootrakool , deputy secretary-general to the prime minister, admitted that, "The immigration police have to have a huge warehouse to store these papers," Kobsak said, adding that

1040-442: A high concentration of lithium. Experts from Chulalongkorn University have assessed that the average lithium content in these deposits, approximately 0.4%, is higher than similar deposits found globally. Nevertheless, there has been some debate among scientists and government officials regarding the potential impact of this discovery, particularly due to variations between the types of mineral resources present, including lepidolite,

1144-583: A lithium-containing mineral, and the actual lithium content in these deposits. Cannabis has been decriminalised in Thailand since June 2022. In the 2023 election, Pheu Thai and Srettha ran on an anti-drug platform that opposed the total liberalisation of cannabis use except in medical use. This placed Srettha in opposition to the Bhumjaithai Party (BJT), where cannabis liberalisation is a flagship policy. He continued his pledge even after forming

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1248-546: A number of sites established and staffed by the BPP to train its field platoons in counterinsurgency operations. These sites include a large national facility near Hua Hin and smaller facilities in Udon Thani , Ubon Ratchathani , Chiang Mai , and Songkhla . Special Branch Bureau is a Special Branch — sometimes referred to by critics as the "political police", is responsible for controlling subversive activities and serves as

1352-658: A regional hub for concerts. Srettha prioritised strengthening the Thai passport, ranked 52nd most powerful by The Passport Index in 2024. In discussions with Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo in Switzerland, he explored the potential for easier entry to Europe for Thai passport holders. During German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier 's January 2024 visit to Thailand, Srettha appealed for support in securing visa exemptions for Thai passport holders from Schengen area member states. Additionally, Thailand aims to extend

1456-482: A rift between the two parties. In response to the shooting at Siam Paragon in Bangkok on 3 October, Srettha observed a minute of silence at the same location on the following day. During this event, he emphasised the importance of prevention, stating, "Let this be the only time this happens. My government insists we will give priority to preventive measures." Srettha contacted the Chinese ambassador to assure him of

1560-485: A role he held for four years after graduating from Claremont Graduate University in 1986. His entrepreneurial venture took off in 1988 when he co-founded Sansiri , which emerged as one of Thailand's premier real estate developers. His leadership steered the company to successfully develop over 400 residential projects. In 2013, Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra inaugurating the Thailand 2020: Thailand's New Step to

1664-604: A scandal for both Srettha and Yingluck. The Democrat Party , who were the main opposition party, called on a probe into the meeting and Democrat spokesman Chavanond Intarakomalyasut accused Yingluck of telling Srettha her government's flood prevention projects as she was due for a tour of flood affected provinces. Additionally, deputy spokeswoman Mallika Boonmeetrakul called on the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to investiage Srettha's assets. On 17 August 2023, Chuwit Kamolvisit filed

1768-497: A visa exemption agreement which will take effect on 4 March 2024. On 17 October, the cabinet approved an extension of the visa-free stay for Russian tourists from 30 to 90 days. This decision was timed with the onset of the Russian winter season and coincided with the peak tourism period in Thailand. Russia ranks as the fifth highest in terms of visitors to Thailand, and the highest from Europe. The extended visa policy for Russians

1872-609: A visit to Phitsanulok province on 15 October 2023, Srettha announced the intention to start implementing this scheme in February 2024. However, the launch of the digital wallet scheme was postponed to May 2024. Since September, Srettha also advocated for a reduction in electricity and fuel costs within his cabinet. In terms of public reception, a survey conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) indicated mixed responses. As of October 2023,

1976-486: A warrant and detain them secretly at almost any location without charge for up to seven days. Bank accounts can be frozen, and documents and property can be seized. Travel can be banned. Automatic immunity for military personnel has been built into the order, and there is no independent oversight or recourse in the event of abuse. The decree basically deputises soldiers as police, but gives greater legal impunity to soldiers than to police. The order came into immediate effect and

2080-492: Is a Thai businessman and politician who served as the 30th Prime Minister of Thailand from 2023 until his dismissal from the position by the Constitutional Court on 14 August 2024. In 1988, he co-founded Sansiri , a venture that propelled him to become a billionaire and a leading real estate tycoon within his country. During his almost one-year premiership, he oversaw economic policies aimed at stimulating

2184-574: Is another popular, albeit more expensive, choice. In mid-2015, Pol Gen Somyot Phumphanmuang, Royal Thai Police Commissioner, initiated a program to allow officers to purchase US-made, 9 mm SIG Sauer P320 pistols for 18,000 baht each. The Thai market price for this gun is several times higher. The affordable price is made possible by a special police exemption from import quotas and import duties. In December 2017, 150,000 SIG Sauer P320SP pistols became available for purchase by police for 23,890 baht each. The RTP will, in addition, distribute 55,000 of

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2288-554: Is constantly increasing. The priorities of the Tourist Police include cooperation with foreign nationals and the promotion of their security. According to Reuters correspondent, Andrew Marshall, "The country has a special force of Tourist Police, set up specifically so that foreigners have as little contact as possible with the ordinary police—the effect on the crucial tourism industry would be chilling." According to one source, in 2017 there were 1,700 enlisted tourist police on

2392-405: Is everything in Thailand... when you are a small policeman to go up [sic], you need to have the right boss, and preferably one at a 'golden police station'– near a casino or entertainment venue", he explained. In a 2008 article, The Economist summed up their assessment succinctly: "In Thailand's most sensational crimes, the prime suspects are often the police." In August 2015, a post was made on

2496-447: Is ongoing, but in practice, nothing is happening". He added that the country has had a couple of police reform committees, which did not amount to much when their recommendations were ignored. On 5 August 2021, the police assaulted Jeerapong Thanapat, a 24-year-old drug suspect, during an interrogation to force him to reveal hidden methamphetamines and to pay a two million baht or US$ 60,000 bribe for his release. The video appears to show

2600-494: Is set to begin in November and last until April 2024. This extension was announced in conjunction with a meeting between Srettha and Russian President Vladimir Putin . Further extending Thailand's visa exemption policy, Indian and Taiwanese travellers were also granted visa-free entry from 10 November 2023 to 10 May 2024. India is the fourth largest source of tourists to Thailand. As a culmination of these visa exemptions and

2704-572: Is still in force as of 2020. The net result is that the military will have more power than the police and less oversight. The government has stated that the purpose of this order is to enable military officers to render their assistance in an effort to "...suppress organized crimes such as extortion, human trafficking, child and labor abuses, gambling, prostitution, illegal tour guide services, price collusion, and firearms. It neither aims to stifle nor intimidate dissenting voices. Defendants in such cases will go through normal judicial process, with police as

2808-566: Is that the sheer number of officers is staggering, roughly 250,000. This means that an increase of 5,000 baht in every cop's monthly salary would cost the government a politically untenable 15 billion baht annually. Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha appointed no-nonsense Police-General Somyot Poompanmoung head of the RTP following the coup of May 2014. Somyot, whose declared assets exceed US$ 11.5 million, has vowed to transfer, arrest, or prosecute all corrupt officers. But, according to Chuwit Kamolvisit,

2912-658: Is the only child of Captain Amnuay Thavisin and Chodchoy Thavisin (née Jutrakul; 1928 - 2024). His family's lineage is connected to five notable Thai Chinese business dynasties: Yip in Tsoi, Chakkapak, Jutrakul, Lamsam , and Buranasiri. When Srettha was three years old in 1966, his father died and Chodchoy raised him as a single mother. Srettha completed his secondary education at Prasarnmit Demonstration School  [ th ] of Srinakharinwirot University in Bangkok. Pursuing higher education, he first obtained

3016-440: Is there any other mention of her. In the words of Jomdet Trimek, a former police officer, now an academician, "In-depth studies of the causes of...corruption tend to be avoided." Jomdet attributes police corruption to two factors: a centralized police bureaucracy which gives too much power to a few; and very low police salaries. He divides police corruption into three main forms: embezzlement of government funds, coercing bribes from

3120-700: The 2014 Thai coup d'état , the junta moved to impose army control over the police for once and for all by giving soldiers power over police. On 29 March 2016, in a move that the Bangkok Post said will "...will inflict serious and long-term damage...", the NCPO , under a Section 44 order (NCPO Order 13/2559) signed by junta chief Prayut Chan-o-cha , granted to commissioned officers of the Royal Thai Armed Forces broad police powers to suppress and arrest anyone they suspect of criminal activity without

3224-525: The Golden Week and Chinese New Year holidays. Together with the Chinese ambassador , Han Zhiqiang , Srettha welcomed the first flight from Shanghai to Suvarnabhumi Airport since the implementation of this exemption. This visa exemption policy was planned to remain in effect until 29 February 2024 for Kazakhs. For Chinese tourists the visa exemption was extended, as both Thailand and China signed

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3328-519: The House of Representatives and the Senate , he secured 482 votes out of 728. Srettha was elected as Thailand's next prime minister by a joint sitting of parliament on 22 August 2023. His immediate responsibilities included the formation of a cabinet and the presentation of his policies for the forthcoming four years to parliament. The following day, King Vajiralongkorn officially appointed Srettha as

3432-683: The Minister of Defence , a member of the Cabinet of Thailand . Initially, the Ministry was called Krom Kalahom ( Thai : กรมกลาโหม ) and its head was called Samuha Kalahom ( Thai : สมุหกลาโหม ), and it was charged with the protection of the southern border . It was founded in the Ayutthaya period and was retained throughout the Rattanakosin period . The ministry in its current design

3536-681: The Royal Thai Armed Forces to maintain national security, territorial integrity, and national Defence. The armed forces of Thailand are composed of three branches: the Royal Thai Army , Royal Thai Navy , and Royal Thai Air Force . Although the King of Thailand is the Head of the Royal Thai Armed Forces ( Thai : จอมทัพไทย ), his position is only nominal. The ministry and the forces are administered by an appointed politician,

3640-503: The Sakon Nakhon Police Facebook page, allegedly from a junior officer. Among other observations the post asked, "...Are our meagre salaries enough to support our families? The answer is no. We have to borrow money and get trapped in debt. "So what about the phuyai [bigwigs]? Are they in debt too? Definitely not. They are rich. Why? Because at the end of every month, money from gambling dens, entertainment venues,

3744-532: The 19th century Royal Thai Armed Forces personnel, aside from their duties of national defence, also performed law enforcement duties alongside dedicated civil servants. Responsibility for law and order was divided into the six ministries led by chancellors of state (during the Ayutthaya and Thonburi eras); in time of war, police units were under royal command as part of the army. Only during the reigns of King Mongkut (Rama IV) and King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) did

3848-462: The 2020 Expo, which paralleled his advocacy for a digital wallet scheme during his tenure as prime minister. Srettha's leadership at Sansiri contributed to the company's growth, including during the COVID-19 pandemic . In 2020, he acquired a land parcel at the corner of Sarasin road near Lumphini Park in Bangkok. The purchase costed ฿3.9 million per square wah (approximately 4m²), and is one of

3952-536: The 2023 Thai general election, he was amongst the prime ministerial candidates for the Pheu Thai Party . The other candidates from the party included Thaksin's youngest daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra , and Chaikasem Nitisiri , a former justice minister . In November, 2022, Srettha announced his intention to join the Pheu Thai Party. During the 2023 Thai general elections , he was named one of

4056-598: The 30th Prime Minister of Thailand. On 5 September, Srettha was sworn in as prime minister and minister of finance by the King. The ceremony took place at the Amphorn Sathan Residential Hall in Dusit Palace , Bangkok. The new cabinet formed by Srettha was composed of 34 ministers representing six parties within the governing coalition. This included several ministers who had served under

4160-473: The Bank of Thailand. These criticisms focus on the potential long-term consequences for Thailand's economic future. Korn Chatikavanij , a former Finance Minister under Abhisit Vejjajiva 's administration during the Great Recession , has also expressed scepticism about the plan, particularly noting its lack of specific details. An ad-hoc committee has been established to flesh out the scheme. During

4264-492: The Bank's actions, he advocated for collaborative fiscal and monetary policies, emphasizing his lack of authority to interfere with the central bank's decisions. The Thai Canal , with an estimated cost of ฿1 trillion, forms part of the Southern Economic Corridor . It is designed to be completed in two phases, with the first phase expected to conclude around 2030 and the second by 2039. Upon completion,

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4368-695: The Central Investigation Bureau. In mid-1987 the total strength of the TNPD, including administrative and support personnel, was estimated at roughly 110,000. Of this number, over one-half were assigned to the Provincial Police and some 40,000 to the BPP. More than 10,000 served in the Metropolitan Police. Quasi-military in character, the TNPD was headed by a director general, who held the rank of police general. He

4472-490: The Government Savings Bank. The announcement was met with widespread criticism, highlighting a departure from previously stated financial approaches. In January 2024, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat indicated that the implementation of the scheme might be postponed beyond May. Despite ongoing scepticism about the program, Srettha maintained that the government had sufficient data to demonstrate

4576-645: The Ministry of Public Health approved the proposal to reclassify cannabis, forwarding the proposal to the Narcotics Control Authority. However, on 23 July, BJT leader Anuntin Charnvirakul announced that the coalition partners had reached an agreement to regulate cannabis use through legislation and not through relisting it as a narcotic. BJT is the second largest party in Pheu Thai's coalition, and Srettha's proposals on cannabis created

4680-509: The Move Forward Party, failed to secure enough votes. Subsequently, Pita's second nomination for prime minister was blocked on 19 July on procedural grounds. After Move Forward failed to form a government, it gave way for Pheu Thai to attempt to form one. This coalition initially only excluded the Move Forward Party, but expanded on 7 August to include the Bhumjaithai Party . In a notable shift from their earlier election stance,

4784-590: The Office of the Ombudsman , Thailand reported on its activities since its inception. Chief Ombudsman Panit Nitithanprapas noted that her office had handled nearly 25,000 cases during the period and observed that the Royal Thai Police had been found to be "the most corrupt agency in Thailand". Curiously, Ms Panit's photo does not appear among those of other former ombudsmen on the organisation's website, nor

4888-653: The Philippines the percentage of female police officers is 20 percent, 18 percent in Malaysia, and 30 percent in Sweden which hold the world's highest percentage of female police officers. Of 8,000 investigators with the RTP, 400 are women. Females were first admitted to the Royal Police Cadet Academy (RPCA), founded in 1901, in 2009. It has since graduated about 700 female officers. Starting with

4992-567: The RTP operate seven leased electric patrol cars used to protect "VVIPs". "They will replace the Mercedes-Benz A Class and will be used in the government's VVIP's motorcade", a spokesman explained. Royal Thai Police vehicle colors vary widely according to grade, region, and kind of duty performed. Bangkok metropolitan police vehicles are black and white . Provincial police vehicles are maroon and white while highway police are maroon and yellow. There are no standard-issue pistols carried by

5096-493: The Royal Thai Police. Policemen must buy their own pistol and he/she must buy what is available in Thailand and what he/she can afford. If the police officer cannot afford a pistol, he may purchase one by paying in installments through his police co-operative. One of the most popular police pistols is the M1911A1 . 45 ACP pistol which can be found readily and relatively cheaply in Thailand. The 9 mm Glock 19 9mm parabellum

5200-583: The SIG P320SP are the standard service pistols. Royal Thai Police uniforms vary widely according to rank, region, and kind of duty performed. Among the police, uniforms tend to resemble army dress rather than conventional police uniforms. Considered part of the police "uniform", all male officers are required to shave the sides and back of their heads, leaving a short crop of hair on the top, hence its common name, ( Thai : ขาวสามด้าน ; RTGS :  khao sam dan ), or 'three white sides'. The models for

5304-540: The Thai Police's major intelligence organization , as well as the unit responsible for VIP protection. Tourist Police Bureau was elevated from the Tourist Police Division under Central Investigation Bureau in 2017. The creation of the Tourist Police is due to the fact that the tourism and entertainment industry in Thailand is growing every year, and the number of people arriving in the country

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5408-599: The Thai economy, particularly in Thailand's tourism sector by promoting Thai soft power. He also attempted to implement the digital wallet scheme and his international visits were aimed at attracting investors. Srettha was however labelled as a "puppet" under the control of powers behind the throne by critics. His appointment of Pichit Chuenban to his cabinet led to his dismissal by the courts in August 2024. Srettha Thavisin, born on 15 February 1962, in Bangkok , Thailand,

5512-617: The World Expo at the Chaeng Watthana government complex on 12 March. The expo showcased the government's proposed ฿2 trillion investments. Srettha, having inspected a nearby residential project, visited the expo and recommended that his Sansiri colleagues do the same, recognising its potential influence on the real estate sector. Despite public concerns about the project's financing and potential debt implications, Srettha expressed his support. In early 2019, he wrote favourably about

5616-649: The approach previously taken by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. In Khon Kaen, he visited included the Ubol Ratana Dam , a site experiencing drought conditions. Srettha communicated to the media that agriculture was a key priority for his government, emphasising plans to enhance agricultural productivity in the region, with a specific goal of increasing farmers' yields by 50%. In Nong Khai , his discussions centred on shipping relations between Thailand and China . On 11 September, Srettha presented

5720-618: The barring of women from the RPCA to a new Ministry of Defence ruling that all RPCA cadets must undergo an initial period of training at the male-only Armed Forces Academies Preparatory School (AFAPS). Critics say the new policy violates the 2015 Gender Equality Act, the constitution, Thailand's 20 year national strategy, as well as international conventions that prohibit gender discrimination. The Thai police are subdivided into several regions and services, each wielding their own powers. Responsible for providing all law enforcement services for

5824-662: The border areas: The RTP Education Bureau is responsible for training police personnel in the latest methods of law enforcement and the use of modern weapons. It operates the Royal Police Cadet Academy in Sam Phran District , Nakhon Pathom Province , for the officer corps, the detective training school at Bang Kaen, the Metropolitan Police Training School at Bang Kaen, and the Provincial Police training centers at Nakhon Pathom, Lampang, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Yala. The bureau also supervises

5928-412: The cabinet's policy statement to Parliament. The statement outlined the government's strategies to address national issues, focusing on the economic sector. Despite high expectations from various economic, labour, and business groups, the statement faced critical analysis from opposition parties and media outlets. Sirikanya Tansakun , deputy leader and chief economist of the Move Forward Party , criticised

6032-497: The capital city of Bangkok and its suburbs, the Metropolitan Police Bureau is probably the most visible and publicly recognizable of all Thai police components. This largely uniformed urban force operates under the command of a chief who holds the rank of police lieutenant general assisted by six deputy chiefs. Organizationally, the force consists of three divisions, each responsible for police services in one of

6136-502: The class to be admitted for the 2019 academic year, the 280 places formerly reserved for females will be scrapped. Earlier in 2018, the RTP prohibited women from "inquiry official" roles. The rationale given was that women are hindered by domestic responsibilities, therefore less effective than male officers. Women will still be able to become police officers via other avenues. For example, women with law degrees will continue to be recruited. National police chief Chakthip Chaijinda attributed

6240-492: The coalition further expanded to incorporate the Palang Pracharath Party and United Thai Nation Party. Srettha described this expansion, which contradicted earlier election promises, as a necessary strategic move. Subsequently, the Constitutional Court dismissed a petition by the ombudsman questioning the constitutionality of Parliament's rejection of Pita Limjaroenrat. A new round of parliamentary voting

6344-483: The company. On 17 February 2012, Srettha admitted to having met Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra and Deputy Prime Minister Kittiratt Na Ranong at the Four Seasons Hotel where they discussed Thailand's financial situation on 8 February alongside others. The meeting was controversial due to Akeyuth Anchanbutr claiming he was attacked by someone who worked for Thaksin. The meeting would go on to cause

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6448-468: The current 30-day visa exemptions for Schengen nations. To gain leverage in negotiations, Thailand is planning to collaborate with Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Malaysia to hold talks with the European Union (EU). On 14 February, Australian Governor-General David Hurley agreed to consider the possibility of a mutual visa exemption scheme between Thailand and Australia during his visit. In

6552-516: The day of the transfer, Torsak Sukvimol was in a meeting with the prime minister. As of 21 March, Police General Winai Thongsong "said [...] that he still could not confirm if the investigation would finish within the assigned 60 days or before the retirement of" Torsak Sukvimol in September. Kitrat Panphet is the commissioner-general of the Royal Thai Police, appointed in October 2024. Until

6656-757: The director of the Muang Nakhon Sawan Province police station, Thitisan Utthanaphon widely known by the nickname "Jo Ferrari", and other police officers suffocating Thanapat with plastic bags until he collapsed and died. The police reportedly ordered doctors at Sawanpracharak Hospital to write in a medical report that the cause of Jeerapong’s death was methamphetamine overdose . Srettha Thavisin Srettha Thavisin MPCh MVM ( Thai : เศรษฐา ทวีสิน , RTGS :  Settha Thawisin , pronounced [sèːt.tʰǎː tʰā.wīː.sǐn] ; born 15 February 1962)

6760-455: The enhanced safety measures for tourists, before contacting other ambassadors of the home countries of the victims who died in the shooting. Ministry of Defence (Thailand) The Ministry of Defence ( Abrv: MOD; Thai : กระทรวงกลาโหม , RTGS :  Krasuang Kalahom ), is a cabinet -level government department of the Kingdom of Thailand. The ministry controls and manages

6864-678: The force. As of 2019 the agency has 2,000 officers and 70 tourist police cars for use nationwide. As of 2023, the RTP has a fleet of some 62 aircraft including a six passenger, 1.14 billion baht (US$ 37 million) police jet, a Dassault Falcon 2000S. The Royal Thai Police, especially the provincial forces, extensively uses pickup trucks and SUVs . For traffic regulation and patrolling in cities, sedans and motorcycles are also used. Highway police vehicles generally also have equipment like speed radars, breath analyzers, and emergency first aid kits. They also use tuk-tuks , minivans , bicycles, all-terrain vehicles , boats, and helicopters. As of April 2020,

6968-651: The gradual post-pandemic opening of its borders, flight arrivals for the high season had recovered to more than 80% of the levels seen in 2019. On 16 February at the iBusiness Forum in Bangkok, Srettha was informed by the Anschutz Entertainment Group that the reason Taylor Swift was not going to perform in Thailand was because of a deal with Singapore where she agreed not to schedule any Eras Tour concerts in ASEAN countries other than Singapore. In response, Srettha pledged to support making Thailand

7072-417: The haircut are the royal guards who protect King Vajiralongkorn . They are known for their short haircuts, required by the monarch. "It's a royal practice," a retired police general said. "...we are all serving His Majesty the King...It looks beautiful...It doesn't hurt anyone." Clashes between the police and army bureaucracies date back at least as far as 1936 and continue to the present day. The intensity of

7176-497: The highly centralized control system that required decisions on most matters to emanate from the various police bureaus of the (then) TNPD headquarters in Bangkok. A reorganization of the TNPD in 1978 and 1979 gave more command authority to the four police lieutenant generals who served as regional commissioners of the Provincial Police. Thereafter, the senior officers of each region not only controlled all provincial police assigned to their respective geographic areas but also directed

7280-627: The infighting has waxed and waned over the years. Since 1947, according to academic Paul Chambers, "...the army has time and again attempted to rein in the police. In many cases, it has resorted to coups." In the 1950s, the rivalry took a comical turn as an arms race developed between the army—supplied by the US military—and the RTP—supplied by the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). The vitriol intensified in 2016 when, following

7384-638: The king and visiting dignitaries and served as a riot-control force to prevent demonstrations and to disperse unruly crowds in Bangkok. A 40,000 person paramilitary force. The BPP and the PARU were largely creations of the US CIA . In the late-1950s and 1960s, "The BPP and PARU were integral in U.S. and Thai counterinsurgency efforts." The BPP, other than protecting the borders, countered "infiltration and subversion..." and operated "as guerrilla forces in enemy held areas" such as northeast and southern Thailand. The PARU

7488-524: The largest of the Royal Thai Police operational components in both personnel and geographic responsibility. It is headed by a commander who reported to the police commissioner-general, and administered through four police regions—geographic areas of responsibility similar to those of the army regional commands. This force provides police services to every town and village throughout the kingdom except metropolitan Bangkok and border areas. The Provincial Police thus handled law enforcement activities and in many cases

7592-400: The lead-up to the 2023 election, the Pheu Thai party campaigned for a digital wallet initiative. This plan, aimed at Thai citizens over 16 years of age, involved distributing a government-funded handout of ฿10,000 per individual. The stipulation was that the funds must be spent within a 4 km radius of the recipient's address and within six months. To encompass the 54.8 million eligible citizens,

7696-426: The local population. Srettha acknowledged that the government 's communication with international investors about the project's economic potential could have been more effective. He also The land bridge project elicited significant concerns and criticism from the local population. Srettha noted that the government had not succeeded in gaining the trust of the Thai people regarding this ambitious project, highlighting

7800-565: The main investigator...trial[s] will be conducted in civilian courts, not military ones. Moreover, this order does not deprive the right of the defendants to file complaints against military officers who have abused their power." The NCPO said that the reason for its latest order is that there are simply not enough police, in spite of the fact that there are about 230,000 officers in the Royal Thai Police force. They make up about 17 percent of all non-military public servants. This amounts to 344 cops for every 100,000 persons in Thailand, more than twice

7904-534: The modernization of the TNPD. During this era the strength and effectiveness of the police grew steadily. All components of the police system were administered by the TNPD headquarters in Bangkok, which also provided technical support for law enforcement activities throughout the kingdom. The major operational units of the force were the Provincial Police, the Border Patrol Police (BPP), the Metropolitan Police, and smaller specialized units supervised by

8008-670: The most expensive land purchases in Thai history. Additionally, in the same year, Srettha acquired a 15% stake in XSpring Capital Public Company Limited. His business career was put on hold when he decided to engage in electoral politics in 2023. Due to regulations in Thai electoral laws prohibiting elected officials from owning or holding shares in companies, Srettha transferred all his shares to his daughter, Chanada Thavisin, on 8 March 2023. This transfer included his shares in Sansiri, representing 4.4% of

8112-582: The nation see a huge reform and the Westernization of Thai law enforcement forces to adapt to the changing situation and needs of the country. By 1902, the Royal Police Cadet Academy (RPCA) was founded to train future police officers. In the same year, King Chulalongkorn granted the Police its own symbol using the Phra Saeng sword (พระแสงดาบ) and the all evil-warding Chaturmuk (จตุรมุข) shield. In 1915

8216-511: The new pistols to police stations nationwide, each station receiving 60. Although the RTP does not issue pistols, long guns are made available by the government. Common are the Heckler & Koch MP5 and FN P90 sub-machine guns, Remington 870 shotguns, the M4 carbine , and M16 rifles . Used by Arintharat 26 Special Operation Unit and Naresuan 261 Special Operation Unit The Glock 19MS and

8320-548: The party's three prime ministerial candidates on 5 April 2023. Throughout the campaign, polls frequently showed him trailing behind Paetongtarn in the race for the preferred prime ministerial choice. Srettha launched his campaign in Bangkok's Khlong Toei district and delivered his inaugural campaign speech in Phichit province . Later, during a speech in Loei province in mid-April, he stated that Pheu Thai would not consider forming

8424-477: The police rarely look at the information in the forms, which are only stored "just in case". The government expects a 20 million visitors to Thailand this year, each required to complete a TM6 form. The form will be replaced by mobile phone app in 2019. Narcotics Suppression Bureau is the lead agency for counter-narcotics investigations in Thailand. The RTP operates 9 fixed wing and 54 rotary-wing aircraft: Responsible for medical and healthcare-related services for

8528-652: The police, including forensic science and autopsies . It is headquartered at Police General Hospital in Pathum Wan District, Bangkok and operates Dara Rasmi Hospital in Chiang Mai, Nawutti Somdet Ya Hospital in Bangkok and Yala Sirirattanarak Hospital in Yala. It also operates the Institute of Forensic Science which trains a number of residents in forensic science each year. The Provincial Police form

8632-410: The policy for its perceived lack of specificity and actionable goals. Sirikanya remarked on the absence of clear indicators and timeframes, comparing it to an earlier draft version that was leaked, and expressing concern over its potential effectiveness in guiding the country's economic direction. Srettha described the economy as being in a "crisis." He highlighted that the highest interest rates in

8736-515: The previous administration of Prayut Chan-o-cha. Srettha stepped down as finance minister in April 2024 during a cabinet reshuffle. He was succeeded by his advisor and former energy executive, Pichai Chunhavajira . On 8 September, Srettha undertook visits to the northeastern provinces of Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, and Nong Khai. These provinces are known strongholds of support for the Pheu Thai Party. Accompanied by several ministers, his visit mirrored

8840-438: The program's effectiveness and value. Srettha had expressed his intention to expedite discussions with Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat. On 15 July 2024 Srettha announced that eligible businesses and individuals can register for the program beginning in August. On 21 September 2023, Srettha engaged in discussions with Elon Musk about potential Tesla investments in the Thai electric vehicle industry. This meeting

8944-582: The project aims to facilitate the handling of up to 20 million cargo containers annually. This infrastructure project received cabinet approval on 16 October. During his subsequent visits to the United States for the APEC summit and to Beijing for the 2023 Belt and Road Forum, Prime Minister Srettha sought investment from both American and Chinese entities to support the development. The land bridge project elicited significant concerns and criticism from

9048-446: The proposal would require an allocation of ฿560 billion from the government. Srettha, following his election, maintained support for this policy, while acknowledging its controversial nature. Pheu Thai has described the initiative as vital for jumpstarting the Thai economy, with a commitment from Srettha's government to consider public feedback on the policy. Concerns have been raised by various economic experts, including those from

9152-481: The provincial and urban police forces were united as one national organization under the Ministry of Interior (established 1894). Originally modeled on the pre–World War II national police force of Japan, the TNPD was reorganized several times to meet changing public order and internal security needs. American advice, training, and equipment, which were provided from 1951 through the early 1970s, did much to introduce new law enforcement concepts and practices and to aid in

9256-508: The public, and collection of protection money from illegal business operators and gives examples of each. At the level of constable, this petty thievery is driven by low wages: entry level salaries for police with no university education was 6,800 baht (2012). In June 2015, the Bangkok Post reported that, "Thai police officers are paid around 14,760 baht per month (6,800–8,340 baht for entry level) and have to buy their own guns and even office supplies." He posits that one reason salaries are so low

9360-434: The railroad, highway, marine, and forestry police units operating there, without going through the chain of command to the Central Investigation Bureau in Bangkok. Although this change increased the workload of the regional headquarters, it resulted in greater efficiency and improved law enforcement. The Provincial Police Division is divided into 10 regions covering the 76 provinces of Thailand except metropolitan Bangkok and

9464-544: The ratio in Myanmar and the Philippines, one and a half times that of Japan and Indonesia, and roughly the same proportion as the United States. In a joint statement released on 5 April 2016, six groups, including Human Rights Watch (HRW), Amnesty International , and the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ), condemned the move. On the occasion of the festivities surrounding its 12th anniversary,

9568-548: The sex trade, human trafficking, drugs and whatnot are routinely sent to them." The post was immediately deleted. Then the Facebook page was deleted altogether. The supervisor of the junior policeman in charge of the page said it was all a technical mistake. Someone had hacked into the page to write the message to taint the image of the police force. In the view of Rangsit University 's Associate Professor Police Lieutenant Colonel Krisanaphong Poothakool, "We hear that police reform

9672-478: The survey showed that the efforts of the Prime Minister's cabinet had "somewhat satisfied" 55% of respondents, while 40% expressed dissatisfaction. On 10 November 2023, Srettha announced plans to borrow ฿500 billion to support the digital wallet scheme. This decision marked a significant shift from the government's initial strategy, which involved funding the program through the annual budget or loans from

9776-487: The three urban areas: northern Bangkok, southern Bangkok, and Thonburi . As of 2019, there are 88 police stations across the capital, each with 30-200 police officers attached to it. In addition to covering the city with foot patrols, the Metropolitan Police maintains motorized units, a canine corps, building guards , traffic-control specialists, and law enforcement personnel trained to deal with juveniles. The Traffic Police Division also provides escorts and guards of honor for

9880-701: The underlying economic challenges, emphasising that structural issues were the main impediments to growth. Srettha advocated for a 25-basis point interest rate cut from the BoT's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC). However, the MPC, in a 5–2 decision, maintained the one-day repurchase rate at 2.50%, the highest in over a decade. The central bank attributed the decision to slower-than-expected economic growth, emphasising reliance on domestic demand. Structural impediments, particularly declining competitiveness, were identified as factors hampering growth. Despite Srettha's disagreement with

9984-621: Was a period of significant political unrest in Thailand. During this time, Srettha expressed opposition to the People's Democratic Reform Committee . Following the 2014 coup, he complied with a summons from the National Council for Peace and Order , reporting to the Royal Thai Army auditorium. Srettha maintained political connections with Thaksin Shinawatra and Yingluck Shinawatra , who have both served as prime ministers. In

10088-483: Was a small unit used on clandestine missions outside Thailand. The national coordinating headquarters has jurisdiction over the entire country. The CIB was organized to assist both provincial and metropolitan components of the Royal Thai Police in preventing and suppressing criminal activity and in minimizing threats to national security. The Immigration Bureau is responsible for issuing travel visas and managing entry and departure in Thailand. The Immigration Police are

10192-412: Was assisted by three deputy directors general and five assistant directors general, all of whom held the rank of police lieutenant general. Throughout the TNPD system, all ranks except the lowest (constable) corresponded to those of the army. The proliferation of high ranks in the TNPD organizational structure, as in the military, indicated the political impact of the police on national life. In 1998, TNPD

10296-694: Was collaborating with Toyota to jointly develop the domestic electric vehicle industry. Since the beginning of the Srettha government, the electric vehicle market in Thailand has experienced significant growth. This progress led to the China Automotive Technology and Research Center (CATARC) setting up its regional automaking hub in Thailand. Additionally, in January 2024, Thailand identified two major lithium deposits in Phang Nga with

10400-467: Was formed in 1887, by the order of King Chulalongkorn , to create a permanent military command. This was a result of the increasing threat posed by Western powers. The ministry was first housed in an old horse-and-elephant stable opposite the Grand Palace . A new European-style building was erected to house it. At first the ministry only commanded the army (founded in 1847), but then it incorporated

10504-435: Was part of Srettha's broader strategy to attract larger investments from companies like Tesla to bolster Thailand's electric vehicle sector . Srettha planned to continue these discussions in November. Additionally, following a visit to Malaysia on 11 October, Srettha indicated that Proton , along with its Chinese partner Geely , were considering the establishment of electric vehicle plants in Thailand. Additionally, Thailand

10608-414: Was scheduled for 22 August. During this session, Srettha delivered a speech to Parliament , outlining his vision and goals should he become prime minister, and also responded to questions from MPs and senators. His candidacy received support from Thaksin Shinawatra. Srettha was elected as the 30th Prime Minister of Thailand , following a nomination by the Pheu Thai Party. In a special joint sitting of

10712-402: Was the principal representative of the central government's authority in much of the country. During the 1960s and early-1970s, as the police assumed an increasing role in counterinsurgency operations, a lack of coordination among security forces operating in the rural areas became apparent. Observers noted that the overall police effort suffered because of conflicting organizational patterns and

10816-590: Was transferred from the Ministry of Interior of Thailand to be directly under the Office of the Prime Minister . It acquired a new name, in English, the "Royal Thai Police" (RTP). The title of its commander was changed from "Director-General of the TNPD" to "Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police". Thailand's police forces number about 230,000 officers. About eight percent (18,400) are female. For comparison, in

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