The appointment process for the Chief of Police (Pol. Gen.) and officials at all levels will begin on October 3, 2024. The focus is on the vacant positions of Police Commissioner of Bangkok (Pol. Maj. Gen.) and the Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, in addition to the upcoming Chief of Police.
According to the National Police Act of 2022, the new police regulation mandates an appointment committee’s rules for appointments to be effective starting October 2, 2024. This will mark the beginning of the appointment process on October 3, right after the farewell ceremony for the current Chief of Police, Pol. Gen. Torsak Sukwimol, held on September 24, 2024.
The current frontrunner for the Chief of Police position is Pol. Gen. Kittirat Panphet, Class 41, with a remaining service of two years. Following him is Pol. Gen. Thana Choowong, Class 42, who will retire in 2026, and Pol. Gen. Khaibun Truangthong, Class 39, aiming for a final role before retirement in 2025.
Pol. Gen. Surachet Hakphong, Class 47, has a longer service until 2031 but has recently moved out of the Patumwan office, with uncertain future prospects.
In 2024, a total of 4,353 police officers are set to retire, creating several vacant command positions from retirements, including key roles in Provincial Police and Special Operations units.
Particular attention is on the Commissioner of the Bangkok Police and the Commissioner of Immigration, as their current holders must advance to Assistant Chief of Police due to seniority, leading to more significant vacancies at high levels.
Overall, there is anticipation regarding how the new government under Prime Minister “Ing” Phaethongthan Shinawatra will reorganize the police force to restore unity and effectiveness within the organization.
This article was rewritten from a Thairath’s news article.
