On October 27, 2023, at the Headquarters of the 11th Riverine Police Command (RPC) in Nong Khai Province, Thailand, Mr. Robert F. Godec, the United States Ambassador to Thailand, and Police Lieutenant General Ratchan Suwanhawat, Commander of the 11th RPC, jointly presided over the handover ceremony of 12 patrol boats to the Thai police.

 

The boats, valued at over 75 million Thai Baht (approximately 2.15 million US dollars), were provided by the United States government to support the Thai Riverine Police in their duty to safeguard the Mekong River border area, stretching from Chiang Rai Province to Ubon Ratchathani Province, reported Siam Rath.

 

Picture: Siam Rath

 

Ambassador Robert F. Godec stated that this cooperation initiative resulted from collaboration between the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) section of the U.S. Embassy in Thailand and the Royal Thai Police's Riverine Police Command. The 12 patrol boats, measuring 22.3 feet in length, were designed to navigate shallow waters effectively, ensuring their suitability for the Mekong River's conditions, including islands and seasonal flooding.

 

Apart from delivering the vessels, delegates from the U.S. Coast Guard and the INL division conducted instructional sessions for 24 river law enforcement officers, elevating their proficiency in overseeing and safeguarding the Mekong River region. These patrol watercraft will assume a pivotal function in bolstering law enforcement and security initiatives in the border vicinity, grappling with challenges like illicit drug transportation and transboundary criminal activities.

 

Picture: Siam Rath

 

Police Lieutenant General Ratchan Suwanhawat emphasized that Nong Khai, a border province adjacent to Laos, plays a vital role in Thailand's economic development, given its strategic location and connection to the new high-speed rail line. However, this border region also faces challenges related to illegal activities, such as drug trafficking and incidents like natural disasters. The existence of these patrol vessels will make a substantial contribution to upholding the region's safety and security.

 

Furthermore, there has been a surge in the population of retired individuals from the United States taking up residence in Nong Khai, with 117 American residents currently inhabiting the province. These retirees often lead a fulfilling life alongside the local Thai community, engaging in cultural activities and contributing positively to the area's development.

 

Picture: Siam Rath

 

In recent years, authorities have discovered attempts to smuggle vehicles and illegal goods out of the country, underscoring the need for constant river patrols to ensure safety. The donation of these patrol boats signifies the enduring partnership between the United States and Thailand in safeguarding the border, preventing crime, and responding to various threats, including potential future emergencies and disasters.

 

Top Picture: Siam Rath

 

-- ASEAN NOW 2023-10-28

 

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They love a free gift, especially toys..

Sad that Thailand couldn't see the need for these craft instead of more expensive submarines.

For reference, an older Thai police patrol boat near the Golden Triangle. No doubt these new boats will be faster.

 

Probably much more practical and useful than either the sub, or the frigate.

Good to see America still friendly with Thailand. 

17 hours ago, webfact said:

The donation of these patrol boats signifies the enduring partnership between the United States and Thailand in safeguarding the border.

 

It's great to see the US making an investment in safeguarding Thailand's borders. 

On 10/28/2023 at 4:51 PM, Purdey said:

Good to see America still friendly with Thailand. 

better than China, that's for sure...