Thai Police Chief Bans Face-Covering Helmets at Traffic Checkpoints
Newly appointed national police chief Pol. Lt. Gen. Sawan Nawalama has banned traffic officers from wearing full-face helmets that hide their identities, requiring white surgical masks instead and suspending checkpoints during extreme heat. The policy aims to improve transparency and public trust after widespread criticism of anonymous-looking officers. The annual police reshuffle is also underway, with transfers expected for those who ignore the new directives.
Since assuming office as national police chief on October 1, Pol. Lt. Gen. Sawan Nawalama has issued several administrative policies. One that has resonated strongly with the public concerns traffic enforcement: he ordered traffic police to stop wearing full-face helmets that obscure their faces. Officers concerned about pollution should wear white surgical masks instead, and checkpoints should be suspended during extreme heat. This first order from Chief "Big Ran" has struck a chord with citizens because traffic police recently faced heavy criticism for wearing black full-face helmets and dark sunglasses that completely hid their faces. The public viewed this as intentional anonymity, especially since everyone now has smartphones ready to record encounters with police. Although police argued they needed helmets for sun protection, the chief recognized this as a public relations problem and banned the helmets, allowing only white masks for dust and smoke protection. Additionally, the new chief emphasized progressive warning and fine measures, and required every checkpoint to answer to society about its purpose. This order addresses the perception that police lack transparency and must not create public resentment. Big Ran's view is that police must enforce the law but do so straightforwardly, openly, and courteously. The public will now watch to see whether the leader's orders translate into practice. Notably, Pol. Lt. Gen. Sawan has up to seven years in the post — a long, stable tenure — so officers may well take heed. Simultaneously, the annual police reshuffle season has arrived, covering ranks from Pol. Maj. Gen. down to Pol. Lt. Col. This is the moment for restructuring: anyone with issues or who disregards the "Pithak 1" orders — whether on traffic helmets or gambling dens — should pack their bags. All eyes are on the first reshuffle under Big Ran to see if it earns praise or criticism. Having risen through the investigation and suppression track, serving in investigative divisions and the 191 Special Operations Unit, he knows real police work intimately. There is hope that appointments of deputies and superintendents will promote genuine performers. The first policy on traffic helmets is seen as a good start; now the proof will come in the police reshuffle.
