Thai authorities are ramping up measures to reassure travelers about the country’s safety, especially after incidents involving foreign tourists, including the widely publicized case of Chinese actor Wang Xing, who was deceived by a call center scam and taken through Thailand to a neighboring nation.
National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kitt-rat Panpetch has launched the Tourist Safety Operations Center (TSOC) to strengthen security protocols. Pol. Gen. Prakhuab Wongsuk has been named as the center’s director, tasked with overseeing a nationwide collaboration between local law enforcement and tourist police to implement systematic improvements in traveler protection.
The Tourist Safety Operations Center (TSOC) is collaborating with the Tourist Police Bureau, headed by Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phuek-am, along with the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Tourism Authority of Thailand, to roll out extensive safety initiatives for travelers.
One notable development is the “Thailand Tourist Police” mobile application, introduced on December 12, 2024. This app enables tourists to send messages, photos, and location details for inquiries or emergencies. It integrates with the 1155 emergency center, offering round-the-clock support in eight languages and working in tandem with the 191 emergency hotline to ensure rapid assistance.
The plan also involves working closely with foreign embassies in Thailand to strengthen safety measures for tourists and address pressing tourism-related concerns.
On the same day, Pol. Gen. Tatchai Pitaneelaboot, who successfully led the rescue of actor Wang Xing from Myanmar, held discussions with Thai and Chinese officials. The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation to tackle human trafficking and cross-border crimes.
A newly established Thai-Chinese police coordination center will prioritize locating missing individuals, investigating call center fraud, and improving border security measures to safeguard tourists and deter illegal activities.
This joint initiative is designed to enhance border safety and combat cybercrime, with particular emphasis on dismantling call center networks that coerce both Thai citizens and foreigners into unlawful operations.
