Police General Samran signed a police order prohibiting the import or ordering of books edited by Pavin Chachavalpongpun, stating that the content threatens national security and could incite unrest in the country. Violators face penalties.
On 4 November 2026, the Royal Gazette website publishedthe National Police Office Order No. 455/2569 regarding the prohibition of ordering or importing printed materials for distribution within the kingdom.Signed by Police General Samran Nualma, Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, dated 30 October 2026, which states:
A foreign publication has appeared, "Routledge Handbook of Contemporary Thailand Second Edition," which has Mr. Pavin Chachavalpongpun as editor. It contains articles with content that threatens security and may cause distress or motivate unrest in the country, contrary to public order, potentially affecting the kingdom's security, public order, or the good morals of the people.
Under the authority of Section 10 of the Printing Registration Act B.E. 2550 (2007), the import or ordering of the publication "Routledge Handbook of Contemporary Thailand Second Edition," edited by Mr. Pavin Chachavalpongpun, is prohibited for distribution within the kingdom. Anyone violating this order shall be subject to imprisonment for up to three years, a fine of up to 60,000 baht, or both. The Police Commissioner-General has authority to confiscate and destroy such printed materials. This order is effective immediately.