US Ambassador to Thailand Sean K. O'Neill made an official visit to the Narcotics Suppression Bureau headquarters on 22 July, as Thailand and the United States reaffirmed their cooperation against transnational drug crime.
The visit was hosted by Pol Lt Gen Akarachon Kraithong, commissioner of the Narcotics Suppression Bureau, alongside senior officers. Ambassador O'Neill was accompanied by Matthew Gomm, an assistant head of special investigations at the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and Jesse Odum, the DEA's Thailand liaison officer.
More than three decades of cooperation
Thai narcotics police said their cooperation with the US Embassy and DEA has continued for more than 34 years, combining efforts against drug-related crime that operates across national borders.
During the visit, officials showed the US delegation equipment and tools used to support investigations, arrests and operational work. They also outlined US-supported cooperation projects, including training in the United States on investigation techniques, developing intelligence leads and apprehending narcotics suspects.
Pol Lt Gen Akarachon was joined in receiving the delegation by deputy commissioner Pol Maj Gen Worapoj Disayabut; Pol Maj Gen Noppasit Mitpakdee, commander of Narcotics Suppression Division 1; Pol Maj Gen Itthipol Chansribut, commander of Division 2; Pol Maj Gen Adis Charoensawat, commander of Division 3; and Pol Maj Gen Theera Thongrayap, commander of Division 4.
Also present were Pol Maj Gen Wanchana Bowonboon, commander of the Transport Division; Pol Maj Gen Wittat Borirak, commander of the Technical and Forensic Support Division; and Pol Maj Gen Wassa Wassanon, commander of the Administrative Division.
Honour for US ambassador
The bureau presented Ambassador O'Neill with an honorary Sayob Prai insignia, recognising the close relationship between the United States and Thailand's narcotics police.
The delegation then watched a tactical demonstration by the Sayob Prai 43 special operations unit. Thai police said the display demonstrated the unit's weapons capability, internationally based tactical methods and readiness to tackle crime in all forms.
Pol Lt Gen Akarachon said drug trafficking was a transnational threat with serious consequences for global security, economies and public health. He said effective action required strong cooperation among drug-enforcement agencies in different countries.
Intelligence sharing remains central
The Narcotics Suppression Bureau said it remains committed to exchanging information, extending investigations and integrating enforcement work with countries including the United States.
The commissioner said Thailand hoped for continued close support and cooperation from the US government in future.
Pictures courtesy of Thaitabloid
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23 July 2026
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