Pattani: Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, recently visited Pattani to engage in discussions with the ISOC Region 4 Forward Command. The purpose of the visit was to gather insights from local operators as part of an effort to refine the new southern strategy with an emphasis on development.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phumtham outlined his itinerary, noting that his primary destination was Sirindhorn Camp in Pattani Province, the headquarters of ISOC Region 4 Forward Command. There, he aimed to gather comprehensive details and initiate discussions on revising the southern strategy. The meeting with the Commander of the 4th Army, who also serves as the Director of ISOC Region 4 Forward Command, was a key component of his visit. Mr. Phumtham aimed to provide initial policy directions, with plans for further discussions once the strategy is established.
Following his visit to Pattani, Mr. Phumtham planned to travel to the Police Region 9 Headquarters in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province. Here, he intended to evaluate the police's performance, particularly in terms of their authority to make arrests. Discussions would also involve the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Center (SBPAC), which is responsible for overseeing development initiatives. The National Security Council (NSC) was identified as a mediator in these discussions, emphasizing the need for collaboration among the military, administrative, and police sectors.
Mr. Phumtham also scheduled a visit to the 5th Infantry Regiment's Headquarters in Sadao District, Songkhla Province. The visit aimed to assess the activities of the Goddess Force and to gather feedback from military officers. This engagement was part of a broader effort to understand and incorporate grassroots perspectives into the strategy revision process. Mr. Phumtham had previously held a meeting with the National Security Council, where he delegated tasks related to the strategic adjustments, emphasizing the importance of input from local operators to ensure effective implementation.