The National Police Chief has transferred the Thung Lung Police Chief due to negligence in duty. He ordered strict measures in any area neglecting tactical training, which leads to ineffective operations, enforcing immediate and uncompromising disciplinary action against commanding officers.
On 20 Feb 2026 GMT+7, Lieutenant General Chaitphojan Suwanrak, Commander of the Personnel Office and Deputy Spokesperson of the Royal Thai Police, revealed that Police General Kittirat Phanphet, the National Police Chief, signed an order transferring the Thung Lung Police Chief in Songkhla Province to administrative duties at the Region 9 Provincial Police Operations Center. This followed suspicions of negligence after reports that an armed assailant stormed Patong Prathan Kirivat School within the Thung Lung Police jurisdiction in Hat Yai District, Songkhla. The assailant took teachers and students hostage and eventually shot the school director and a student, resulting in the director's death. This incident negatively impacted the Royal Thai Police's image and drew wide public and social concern.
The National Police Chief ordered the Region 9 Provincial Police Commander to conduct a thorough, transparent, and fair investigation into the matter. Under the authority of Sections 63 and 105 of the 2022 National Police Act and the 2023 Royal Thai Police Regulation on transferring officers to administrative duties, Police Colonel Chansarawut Saengarun, the Thung Lung Police Chief, was transferred to assist at the Region 9 Operations Center, temporarily relieved from his original duties. Police Colonel Suwarot Lunhawittayanon, Deputy Commander of Songkhla Provincial Police, was appointed acting Thung Lung Police Chief from now until 30 September 2026 GMT+7 or until further notice.
Lieutenant General Chaitphojan stated that the Royal Thai Police will not ignore this issue. The National Police Chief has urgently ordered restoration of public trust and confidence. He has instructed all units and areas to have commanders closely supervise their subordinates, regularly rehearse tactical and emergency response plans to ensure effective public safety, and reassure citizens. Should any commander neglect, fail to supervise, or inadequately train subordinates leading to damage to the service, strict disciplinary action will be taken.