Bangkok: The National Police Chief, Police General Kittirat Panphet, addressed the ongoing issue of attacks on the police organization during his speech at a sign-on campaign aimed at cracking down on scammers. While he declined to name any individuals, he emphasized that everyone must be accountable for their actions and expressed his desire to focus on his work. He acknowledged the strong feelings that police across the country have encountered and urged the residents of Pathumwan to refrain from actions that could harm their own country.
According to Thai News Agency, during his address, Police General Kittirat discussed the Royal Thai Police’s policy on tackling scams and mentioned the criticisms directed at the police force, referring to it as a “major crime hub.” He questioned whether these criticisms were linked to the case of Police General Surachet Hakpal, the former Deputy National Police Chief. Despite being asked about potential personal vendettas, Police General Kittirat chose not to name anyone and reiterated the importance of focusing on their duties.
When questioned about former police officers expressing dissatisfaction and filing complaints, the National Police Chief highlighted the need for accountability in communication, as certain statements could significantly impact both active and retired officers. He emphasized the right to express opinions and exercise legal rights but stressed the importance of patience and dedication to their work.
Addressing the possibility of legal action against those attacking the police, Police General Kittirat stated that he would consider the matter but underscored the importance of maintaining integrity and morality within the force. He encouraged fellow officers to focus on tackling the pressing issue of scammers and call center fraud, emphasizing prevention, suppression, investigation, and assistance efforts. He also pointed out the sacrifices made by many officers and questioned the fairness of labeling them as scammers.
The National Police Chief expressed gratitude for the Prime Minister’s support and the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at enhancing collaborative efforts among agencies. He emphasized the importance of verifying online transactions to prevent fraud and urged the public to remain vigilant.
In his message to outsiders living in Pathumwan, Police General Kittirat highlighted the significance of the police institution and the values instilled in him through his upbringing and training. He acknowledged the impact of accusations against the organization on the morale of officers nationwide and emphasized the need for open dialogue and self-improvement. He concluded by reiterating the importance of responsibility in public discourse and the commitment to overcoming current challenges.