Thai Military to Withdraw from South, Volunteers to Step In by 2027

[webfact]

 

The Ministry of Interior and the Internal Security Operations Command (Isoc) have announced plans to withdraw military forces from Thailand's southernmost provinces by 2027, transitioning the responsibility for public safety to local volunteer forces.

 

In a recent ceremony, Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Army Commander Charoenchai Hintao signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at bolstering local volunteer forces through joint training initiatives. This strategic collaboration is designed to ease the military’s workload while ensuring continued public safety.

 

"The MoU signifies strengthened cooperation between the Ministry of Interior and Isoc. The volunteer forces, who are local residents, inherently understand their communities and will undergo additional training to better manage public order and safety," Minister Anutin stated. "We have observed steady progress during multiple visits and are confident that the volunteer forces will be adequately prepared to fulfill their duties by 2027," he added.

 

General Charoenchai highlighted that the operational framework in the southern border provinces has always been a collaborative effort among civilians, the police, and the military under Isoc's guidance. By 2027, control is expected to transition to the Department of Provincial Administration, alongside volunteer forces and police. However, he cautioned that the government might reassess the plan if the security situation does not improve.

"The volunteers already possess a strong foundation, but to ensure seamless cooperation, joint training exercises are necessary," Gen Charoenchai explained. "These volunteers will be crucial for the government in maintaining public safety and providing necessary support," he emphasized.

 

An official announcement, signed by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and published in the Royal Gazette on September 25, stated that due to the prevailing security concerns in the southern region, the enforcement of the Internal Security Act will be extended in 19 districts across four provinces from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.

 

The districts affected include Yi-ngo, Sungai Kolok, Waeng, and Sukhirin in Narathiwat; Yaring, Panare, Mayo, Mai Kaen, Thung Yang Daeng, Kapho, and Mae Laen in Pattani; Betong, Raman, Kabang, and Krong Pinang in Yala; and Na Thawi, Chana, Thepha, and Saba Yoi in Songkhla, reported Bangkok Post.

 

As this transition unfolds, the Ministry of Interior and Isoc remain committed to ensuring that volunteer forces are thoroughly prepared to take on their new roles, ensuring a continued emphasis on public safety and community security in southern Thailand.

 

FILE photo courtesy: Facebook FM91

 

-- 2024-10-02

 

[brianthainess]

17 minutes ago, webfact said:

This strategic collaboration is designed to ease the military’s workload while ensuring continued public safety.

Sorry but, what apart from the Southern problems, does the Army have to do.

Where is their Workload apart from the south ?? This is where they are needed most. IMO

[watchcat]

17 minutes ago, webfact said:

The Ministry of Interior and the Internal Security Operations Command (Isoc) have announced plans to withdraw military forces from Thailand's southernmost provinces by 2027, transitioning the responsibility for public safety to local volunteer forces.

 

But isn't this a job for the arny? Why else do they need a budget for silly things and millions of generals that seems to do absolutely nothing, kick them out it'll give the government money for taking care of the  elderly and give them a serious pension.

[Tropicalevo]

35 minutes ago, webfact said:

Minister Anutin stated. "We have observed steady progress during multiple visits

What progress?

Rangers are being murdered and maimed on a regular basis.

Very few insurgents have been arrested.

Window dressing for the poster boy?

God forbid that he should become PM one day.