Ranong: The Commander-in-Chief of the Army visited and offered encouragement to the personnel of the Thep Satri Task Force and the new recruit training unit. The Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army visited Ranong and Chumphon provinces to monitor the Thai-Myanmar border and inspected and encouraged troops of the Thep Satri Task Force, as well as the new recruit training units of the 44th Military District and the 5th Battalion, 25th Regiment. He emphasized the importance of maintaining border security and providing comprehensive care for new recruits.

According to Thai News Agency, General Phana Klaewplodthuk, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army and Commander of the Army Operations Center, along with a delegation of army commanders, traveled to Ranong and Chumphon provinces on May 8-9, 2026, to inspect and encourage troops and monitor the operations of units in the area. They were welcomed by Lieutenant General Norathip Poynok, Commander of the 4th Army Area and Commander of the 4th Army Area Operations Center; Major General Aphinan Jamjang, Commander of the 5th Infantry Division and Commander of the Thep Satri Task Force; and Major General Somkid Chupuek, Commander of the 44th Military District.

Yesterday (May 8, 2026), the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army and his delegation received a briefing on key operational achievements of the Thep Satri Task Force and the 25th Infantry Regiment Task Force at Rattanarangsarn Camp, Mueang District, Ranong Province. These units are responsible for the Thai-Myanmar border area from Chumphon Province to Ranong Province, a total distance of 254 kilometers. In fiscal year 2026, significant arrests included the apprehension of 207 undocumented migrant workers and the seizure of smuggled agricultural products such as over 18,000 kilograms of rubber and 11,002 kilograms of palm oil. The units have expanded their investigations following these arrests to plan and intensify efforts to intercept illegal activities. Afterward, the Commander-in-Chief and his delegation visited and encouraged personnel at the Koh Saranee checkpoint in Ranong Province. This 24-hour water checkpoint inspects individuals and passenger boats, prevents various offenses, and ensures securi ty in the area. On average, 160-180 boat trips pass through the checkpoint daily, carrying approximately 700-800 passengers.

During his visit to the units under the command of the Thep Satri Task Force, the Army Commander thanked the personnel and provided additional operational guidelines in the area. He requested that the units closely monitor the situation along the Thai-Myanmar border, especially the fighting within Myanmar, in order to prepare forces and consider appropriate and timely actions. He also asked for the study and application of modern technology to enhance border surveillance missions. Furthermore, he instructed unit commanders to supervise their personnel, emphasizing that they are strictly prohibited from being involved in any form of illegal activity in the area. In addition, he requested that the units integrate their operations with security agencies and civilian networks in the area, and utilize the mechanisms of the Thai-Myanmar Local Border Committee (TBC) for continuous coordination of various activities, fostering participation in problem-solving and supporting sustainable security missions in the area.

For today's mission (May 9, 2026), the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army and his delegation paid respects at the Monument of King Rama V and the Monument of Prince Chumphon Khet Udomsak within Khet Udomsak Camp, Chumphon Province. Following this, they traveled to inspect and monitor the training of new recruits of the 1/69 batch at the 44th Military District's new recruit training unit and the 25th Artillery Battalion, 5th Artillery Regiment. The Commander-in-Chief received a briefing on the new recruit training and inspected the medical tents and barracks. He then observed the training atmosphere, met with and encouraged the new recruits of the 1/69 batch and all personnel involved in the training, before presenting morale-boosting gifts.

During this event, the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army gave a speech to the new recruit training units, instructing commanders at all levels to closely supervise the training, adapting the training format to suit the weather conditions and in accordance with the Royal Thai Army's measures. He also emphasized the importance of continuously monitoring and assessing the health of new recruits to prevent illness, especially heatstroke and mental health issues. Furthermore, all personnel were instructed in basic first aid knowledge to enable them to provide immediate assistance in case of emergencies. In addition, he stressed the importance of the rights and welfare of new recruits and their families, requiring unit commanders to explain these rights to them and ensure they receive them fully. This includes promoting opportunities for self-development during training, such as further education, entrance examinations for army non-commissioned officer schools, vocational training, and employment with agenc ies cooperating with the Royal Thai Army after discharge, in order to motivate and pave the way for a future military career.