In today’s digital era, where everyone seems to look up to social media icons for guidance, the innovative national police chief, Kittharath Punpetch, has a grand plan. He envisions transforming the Royal Thai Police (RTP) by crafting their own league of influencers to forge a direct bond with the public while prominently alerting them about crimes. To him, these RTP influencers should serve as an approachable channel of help, revitalizing the public’s perception of police and ensuring that crime victims prioritize reaching out to law enforcement before considering other avenues for assistance.
His groundbreaking initiative aligns seamlessly with the Cyber Booster program, a synergistic endeavor spearheaded by the Thai Media Fund in association with RTP, the Online News Producers Association, and Thai PBS. The mission is to generate media content that bolsters the public’s defense against the ever-increasing menace of cyber threats. With key police authorities at the helm, this project made its grand entrance on Thursday, gathering the spotlight with dignitaries like the Metropolitan Police Bureau’s (MPB) Investigation Division chief, Pol Maj Gen Teeradej Thumsutee, and the vibrant Pol Maj Pakrit Krittayapong from the Criminal History Registration Division, proudly collaborating with charismatic figures like Pol Capt Pitchpong Somkul and Pol Capt Pichayakorn Sukthawee.
These spirited officers are pivotal in propelling RTP’s Khakinang TV, a dynamic channel whose core mission is to elevate public awareness while seamlessly narrowing the rift between the police and civilians. Innovator Pol Maj Gen Teeradej, who also spearheaded the conceptual IDMB Page of the police, emphasizes that the Cyber Booster initiative is a striking example of a united front against online scams and diverse cyber mischiefs designed to bilk unsuspecting people out of their hard-earned money.
The mission is crystal clear—ensure the public knows exactly where to turn for assistance, a point Pol Maj Gen Teeradej underscores passionately. With 17 engaging video clips now in the limelight, featuring new-gen police officers seamlessly stepping into the realm of online idols, the public is forewarned about lurking dangers. Among these gallant officers is Pol Maj Thanyapirasit Julpipop, a diligent inspector linked with the MPB; Pol Capt Nonthapat Intrarasuran, a robust deputy inspector aligned with the Technology Crime Suppression Division; and the magnetic Pol Lt Kansini Sitthichotpong, a media liaison virtuoso affiliated with the MPB.
Lovingly dubbed “Lt Panda,” Pol Lt Kansini firmly advocates for the project’s efficacy, attributing its strength to collaborative partnerships across various agencies, including media channels. She notes that while this initiative is not a mere image boost for the police, its essence lies in arming the public with awareness and building robust defenses against scams. Prevention, she stresses, always trumps reaction, yet the police remain steadfast in their commitment to resolving crimes.
With her natural flair for communication, Pol Lt Kansini refrains from labeling herself an influencer. Yet, she relentlessly channels her gift to craft content that unveils the deceptive tactics of criminals. “Police possess distinctive talents—some excel in apprehending offenders; I thrive on communication, using it to unmask these ruses. This is my contribution to minimizing harm,” she shares, illuminating her crucial role in the initiative.
The idea of police influencers just smells like propaganda. Doesn’t this just sugarcoat underlying issues?
I see your point, but if it helps in preventing scams and improving public relations, maybe it’s worth a try.
If they fix the systemic issues, then maybe. But till then, it’s just image management.
It’s the new age man! Everything is digital now. Even the police have to keep up.
Mixing influencers with law enforcement could dilute the professionalism expected from the police force. Where do we draw the line?
Honestly, I think this initiative could work. Young people are glued to their phones and social media could be the best way to reach them about important issues.
But isn’t that kind of pandering? Why not just work on transparency and trust the old fashioned way?
True, but we all know how slow old-fashioned methods can be!
Does making police officers social media stars really help in reducing crime rates though?
If these influencers provide valuable info on crime prevention, it might. Better than boring 20-page reports no one reads!
Yeah, but they shouldn’t be influencers for the sake of being trendy. Substance over style!
I love the ‘Lt Panda’ nickname, makes the whole police thing feel more personal and less intimidating.
Redirecting focus from real issues. Influence won’t reform police force culture. Face real corruption first!
Absolutely! Trust should be earned with actions, not social media likes.
Exactly! Tangible change is what’s needed on the ground.
But changing perceptions online can lead to pressure for real change.
Public outreach via social media can be powerful if handled well. Better to engage people where they are than miss the message.
Police should stick to policing. Let social media influencers do their job. Mixing them muddles roles, making it harder to tell who’s authentic.
Old-school police work should evolve too. If this helps bridge the gap between cops and the community, count me in!
Maybe these police influencers can encourage reporting crimes online, making it easier for victims. The internet could be their best ally.
This move might just lead to superficial relationships between the public and police. They should aim for deeper, more impactful connections.
The world is changing too fast. This could actually be bad for police credibility in the long run.
Or it could set a new standard for community interaction! It really depends on execution.
If you can’t beat them, join them right? It’s all evolution, baby!
Why not fund more traditional police training and equipment rather than focusing on social media fame?
More like a novel distraction than a strategy. What happens when the novelty fades?
Funny enough, traditional methods haven’t always been so effective. Maybe a digital shake-up is what’s needed.
True that. Don’t forget it’s also about bridging the age gap, right?
But please let’s address real-life policing issues first.
If done right, influencer officers might make police feel more approachable. That’s not necessarily a bad thing!