Bangkok: The Ministries of Interior and Justice have launched a three-party operation to strictly monitor released convicts on a case-by-case basis to prevent them from reoffending nationwide. Police Lieutenant General Ruttapol Jaset has ordered strict enforcement by three agencies: the administration, the police, and probation officers, to closely monitor high-risk groups on a case-by-case basis and prevent repeat offenses.
According to Thai News Agency, today Mr. Jetset Thaiseth, Deputy Minister of Interior, together with Pol. Gen. Ruttapon Naowarat, Minister of Justice, chaired a meeting to review operational procedures for post-release surveillance at the local level. Attendees included Mr. Narucha Khosasilai, Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration; Mrs. Jirapha Sindhunawa, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice; Pol. Lt. Col. Piya Raksakul, Director-General of the Department of Probation; Mr. Yongyuth Chuenpradit, Legal Advisor to the Ministry of Interior; Pol. Lt. Col. Singkham Khamyod, Director of the Investigation and Legal Affairs Division; and representatives from various government agencies.
Mr. Jetset stated that the implementation of surveillance measures for released prisoners at the local level is an urgent policy of Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul. This policy has been emphasized since the incidents in Uthai Thani and Chonburi provinces, which highlighted the issue of recidivism. These incidents have caused damage to lives and property and impacted public morale. The lessons learned from these incidents demonstrate the need for immediate action.
Mr. Jetset emphasized the importance of seamless cooperation between the administrative sector, police officers, and agencies under the Ministry of Justice to create an effective surveillance mechanism. He requested cooperation from all relevant sectors to thoroughly examine and monitor the allocated target lists at the local level, including assessing the risk level of each individual and tracking their daily behavior, particularly regarding drug problems. Initial coordination and intelligence gathering have revealed that some released convicts are still involved with drugs, necessitating the creation of a detailed database to prevent recidivism.
Mr. Jetset further stated that he places his hopes on all provincial governors to select and assign prepared and committed personnel to take responsibility for this mission. He urged them to focus on in-depth, case-by-case work rather than merely following procedures through paperwork. He emphasized the importance of protecting innocent citizens and maintaining a peaceful and secure social environment. This approach is a new dimension and, if successful, can build confidence, peace, and lasting security in society.
He urged all agencies to pool their resources and knowledge to drive progress and achieve the best possible results. If obstacles or issues arise, Mr. Jetset encouraged direct contact through established communication channels. The government and executive branch have a special operations team ready to support and oversee collaborative efforts to ensure the mission's effective completion.