Pattani: The Minister of Defense, General Nattapol Nakphanit, traveled to Pattani Province to inspect the operations of the Internal Security Operations Command Region 4 Forward Command. His visit centered on the need to integrate various sectors to achieve sustainable peace in the southern border provinces.
According to Thai News Agency, General Nattapol, accompanied by a delegation, was welcomed by Lieutenant General Narathip Poynok, Commander of Army Area 4 and Director of Internal Security Operations Command Region 4. During the briefing, Lieutenant General Narathip outlined the unit’s role as the primary agency responsible for integrating and driving security and development efforts under the 2026 Southern Border Provinces Peace Promotion Plan. The plan focuses on enhancing political, military, and operational efficiency, particularly for the Southern Border Provinces Volunteer Defense Corps. This initiative is designed to facilitate the transition from military to regular government administration while fostering understanding and cooperation among all sectors to address the ongoing unrest in the region.
General Nattapol highlighted instructions from the Prime Minister, who also serves as Minister of the Interior, for collaborative efforts among the Ministries of the Interior, Defense, and Justice. These efforts aim to create a systematic and sustainable solution to the challenges faced by the southern border provinces.
During the field visit, General Nattapol emphasized the importance of combining security measures with administrative and developmental efforts to ensure comprehensive problem-solving. Guidelines were provided to ISOC Region 4 Forward Command to prepare local agencies for the transfer of security responsibilities to the Ministry of Interior by 2027, as outlined in the southern border management plan. Provincial governors have been advised to ready their regions in terms of intelligence, security, and area management as troop levels decrease and conditions stabilize.
Moreover, General Nattapol stressed the significance of safeguarding citizens’ lives and properties, ensuring their well-being and happiness. He also extended words of encouragement to officials for their dedicated service amidst ongoing incidents. The commitment to maintaining morale and achieving stable and sustainable peace remains strong, with security measures in the southern border provinces set to be a focal point of upcoming discussions.