Ranong Police and US Step Up Border Nuclear Detection

Police in Ranong have joined US officials and multiple Thai security agencies in efforts to strengthen the detection and prevention of nuclear and radioactive material smuggling along the Thai-Myanmar border.

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On 8 June, Major General Thanawat Watthanakun, Commander of Ranong Provincial Police, led a consultation meeting under the NSDD (Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence) Thailand ISLE (Implementation and Sustainment Local Execution) Survey project. He was joined by deputy commanders Pol Col Seksan Kaewsawang, Pol Col Monthian Baethong, Pol Col Sutthi Nitiakkharaphong and Pol Col Sombat Chumphon, alongside representatives from customs, provincial administration, maritime security agencies, military units, immigration, forensic police, Border Patrol Police, Marine Police, Special Branch, investigation units and local police stations.

The meeting focused on preventing and detecting the illegal transport of nuclear and radioactive materials. Participants discussed global security threats posed by radioactive and nuclear materials that fall outside regulatory control, known as MORC (Material Out of Regulatory Control)

The Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence (NSDD) programme is operated by the US National Nuclear Security Administration under the US Department of Energy. Its objective is to help partner countries install systems capable of detecting and intercepting illicit nuclear material that could potentially be used in weapons or so-called “dirty bombs”.

The ISLE Survey is a site assessment process designed to identify vulnerabilities, determine the most suitable radiation detection equipment for specific locations and assess training requirements for personnel. Information gathered during the survey will be used to develop permanent protection systems.

Officials said the selection of Ranong for the survey reflects its strategic role as a frontline province. The area is viewed as an important point for intercepting potential threats before they can move further into other parts of Thailand.

The discussions also highlighted cooperation between Thai and US authorities, as well as coordination among local law enforcement, military and border security agencies operating in the province.

Thaitabloid reported that future planning will be based on the survey findings, which are expected to guide the installation of detection systems and the development of long-term measures to strengthen border security against nuclear and radioactive material smuggling.

Picture courtesy of Thaitabloid

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 10 June 2026