The National Police Chief acknowledged that the Prime Minister personally called to reprimand the issue of the image showing a suspect smoking during a press briefing without restraints. He ordered the police inspector to investigate whether procedures were violated. He admitted that weapons searches are difficult but emphasized that there is nothing Thai police cannot accomplish.
On 11 Aug 2026 GMT+7, Police General Kittirat Phanphet, the National Police Chief, addressed the case of Chalerm Riewrang, former Nonthaburi MP and suspect in the shooting death of Pol. Col. Thongchai Yenprasert, Nonthaburi Provincial Administrative Organization President. Images showed Chalerm smoking during questioning at Rattanathibet Police Station without handcuffs. The Prime Minister personally called to emphasize police conduct regarding press briefings, use of restraints, and smoking while controlling suspects. The Chief accepted these directives and has instructed Police General Itthipol Atchariyaprasit, the National Police Inspector General, to form a fact-finding committee expected to report soon. These regulations have existed for many eras, dating back to former National Police Chief Police General Kowit Wattana.
Even Police Lieutenant General Wattana Yijin, Commander of Provincial Police Region 1 and a senior officer, confirmed he was not embarrassed, stating all actions must comply with laws and regulations. If violations under Section 157 are suspected, thorough investigations are required.
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister emphasized weapons search measures and checkpoint enforcement, acknowledging these are challenging tasks. Police must apply skills, knowledge, and intelligence information to prevent weapon carrying and ensure public safety.
Regarding reports that the FBI provided leads prompting Thai police to search the home of a suspect involved in the shooting at Thepsirin School in Nonthaburi, Police General Kittirat said no such reports have been received. He has ordered Deputy National Police Chiefs Police General Thana Chuwong and Police General Thatchai Pitanilabut to oversee the case to prevent recurrence. He reiterated that under the Thai sky, there is no task Thai police cannot accomplish.