Gen Chonasit was previously commander of police in Songkla Province.
His first day in Phuket was a full one, checking the many places where New Year celebration will be held.
“In fact, I have been to Phuket several times, so I know a bit about the problems, such as traffic, but there are many thing I need to learn.
“I am going to Kathu police station to check out arrangements for the New Year events, especially the traffic and the parking,” he said. “Later, I will go to Sanam Chai [in Phuket Town, site of this year’s New Year countdown].”
He confirmed that his arrival in Phuket was part of a normal national reshuffling of senior officers in the Royal Thai Police.
“It is a regular reshuffle,” he said, but then added with a grin, “Here is better, because I will be a long way away from [terrorist] bombs.”
His predecessor, Pol Maj Gen Pekad Tantipong, is due to take up a new post tomorrow in Bangkok, as commander of the Legal Affairs Division of the Royal Thai Police.