Police Open Station Grounds for Farmers to Dry Rice with 24-Hour Security
Nong Sai Police Station in Buriram province is offering its courtyard as a safe, supervised drying ground for farmers during the rice harvest. The initiative provides 24-hour security, prevents roadside accidents and theft, and includes police assistance with turning and collecting the grain. Local farmers have welcomed the arrangement, noting it is more convenient and secure than drying crops on road shoulders.
Nong Sai Police Station in Nang Rong district, Buriram province, has opened its front courtyard for farmers to dry rice, guaranteeing 24-hour police supervision to ensure the grain is not stolen.
On November 13, 2026, reporters noted that during the annual rice harvest, farmers across many areas rush to spread paddy in the sun to reduce moisture before storage or sale. However, most farmers lack their own drying yards and must spread rice on road shoulders and edges, risking traffic accidents and theft by opportunists.
Recently, Nong Sai police officers, led by Station Superintendent Pol. Lt. Col. Prawatratcha Sothiyaphon, patrolled the area and spoke with farmers drying rice along roadsides, warning them of the dangers. They invited farmers to use the spacious, paved courtyard in front of the station, which is safe from passing vehicles and guarded by police around the clock. Officers also help turn and collect the rice. Since the area opened, no vehicle has struck a rice pile in the station's zone.
Mr. Somkiat Klomhamil, 63, a farmer from Nong Sai subdistrict, said he farms 50 rai and this year's yield is good, but every year he faces a shortage of drying space, forcing him to use the village entrance road. After police suggested using the station courtyard, he feels relieved because farmers previously hesitated to use the area, fearing they might inconvenience officers. In practice, he found it convenient and safer than roadside drying; the superintendent and police welcomed them warmly, not minding the space, and even helped gather, sweep, and guard the rice. He wants to invite other farmers without drying space to use the station courtyard instead of risking the roadside.
Pol. Lt. Col. Prawatratcha Sothiyaphon, Superintendent of Nong Sai Police Station, said the station has opened its front yard for farmers to dry rice every year for many consecutive years because the area is large enough for local farmers. Police officers help turn the rice and guard it continuously. "I guarantee there is absolutely no loss," he said, "unlike roadside drying which risks accidents and obstructs public traffic. I invite farmers in Nong Sai subdistrict to bring their rice to dry at the station for free. We welcome you and will provide 24-hour security."
