Law
Chiang Mai Police Chief Transferred Following Gambling Den Raids
The Superintendent of Chang Phueak Police Station has been reassigned following a major crackdown on illegal gambling operations in Chiang Mai.
On September 19, 2026, the Chiang Mai Provincial Police Commander, Pol. Maj. Gen. Yutthana Kaenchan, issued an order to transfer Pol. Col. Sawek Chusiri, the Superintendent of Chang Phueak Police Station, to the Provincial Police Operations Center. This administrative action follows a high-profile operation titled 'Prab Sian Nakhon Phing,' led by the Deputy Minister of Interior and the Department of Provincial Administration, which resulted in the discovery and closure of two large-scale illegal gambling dens within the jurisdictions of Chang Phueak and Chiang Mai City police stations.
Pol. Col. Chindet Deethae, Deputy Commander of Chiang Mai Provincial Police, has been appointed as the acting Superintendent to oversee the station during the investigation. The inquiry aims to determine whether there was any negligence in duty or failure to supervise the area effectively. Additionally, the Mayor of Chiang Mai clarified that an individual involved in the incident, referred to as 'S.T. Kong,' is not a member of the Chiang Mai City Council.
For residents and visitors, this development highlights ongoing efforts by central authorities to curb illegal activities in the region. While the immediate impact on daily life is minimal, the investigation may lead to further administrative changes within local law enforcement. The full extent of the oversight failures and potential disciplinary actions against other officers remain subject to the ongoing fact-finding committee's report.
