The police spokesperson explained the issue of reduced allowances for police in the southern region, acknowledging the cuts but stating that the National Police Chief has instructed unit leaders nationwide to allocate allowances in a way that does not affect police morale. He declined to respond to comparisons with the military budget and plans to propose a central government budget request to assist.
On 28 Oct 2026 GMT+7, Pol Maj Gen Siriwat Deepho, spokesperson for the Royal Thai Police, revealed that allowances for police serving in the three southern border provinces have been reduced. He acknowledged that the overall allocated budget has decreased, though not by much. National Police Chief Pol Gen Samran Nuamma has instructed all unit leaders to manage their budgets efficiently and lawfully while considering all factors. There may also be a consideration to request additional support from the central government budget in the future.
When asked about the impact on allowances for police officers, especially Border Patrol Police (BPP) and border operation personnel in the south, who reportedly received reduced allowances despite the full budget being allocated to Provincial Police Region 9, Pol Maj Gen Siriwat said the National Police Chief has directly ordered the Region 9 Commander and all unit leaders to promptly manage the budget. The Royal Thai Police does not want officers to lose morale or have their duties affected. Unit leaders have been asked to consider ways to manage the budget to maximize benefits and minimize negative impacts.
Regarding whether the budget for procurement can be adjusted to fully cover allowances for subordinates, he declined to provide operational details, stating that each unit's management is aware of how to proceed according to the National Police Chief's policies.
When asked about comparisons to the military, which has not faced budget cuts despite having similarly risky missions, Pol Maj Gen Siriwat said he could not speak on behalf of other agencies, as they are separate organizations.