Bangkok: General Chaiyapruk Duangprapat has been appointed as the new Secretary-General of the National Security Council (NSC), a decision made during the 6th National Security Council meeting of 2026. The meeting, chaired by Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, resulted in the appointment of General Chaiyapruk, who previously served as the Chief of Staff of the Royal Thai Army, replacing Chatchai Bangchawad. Chatchai has been transferred to the role of Permanent Secretary of the Prime Minister's Office, following a Cabinet resolution on August 25th.

According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister Anutin expressed confidence that General Chaiyapruk's leadership would enhance the NSC's strategic management, especially in the southern border provinces. The meeting focused on revising strategies to address the current security situation in the South, aiming for improved conditions. The strategic plan highlights adjustments in operational methods to manage security matters more effectively in the three southern border provinces.

In related developments, Police Lieutenant General Piyawat Chalermsri, Commander of Provincial Police Region 9, shared insights into security measures for the upcoming mobile Cabinet meeting in Songkhla Province. He emphasized that daily meetings are being held to ensure thorough security preparations, traffic management, and coordination among military, police, and provincial authorities.

The security landscape also includes an ongoing investigation into bullets allegedly fired from a surveillance helicopter. Police Lieutenant General Piyawat noted that while awaiting ballistic investigation results, the involved agencies are conducting a detailed forensic examination to ensure accurate conclusions are drawn. The police are approaching the situation with caution, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive review of all evidence before making any determinations.