Deputy National Police chief Pol General Surachate, known as “Big Joke,” seems surprisingly upbeat despite facing yet another career setback. It’s almost as if he’s determined to prove he’s as resilient as a cat with nine lives.
In a recent Facebook post, he cheerfully wished everyone a safe return to their hometowns for Songkran celebrations and the Thai New Year.
Last month, Surachate, along with National Police chief Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol, was transferred to the Office of the Prime Minister following a dispute between the country’s top police officers. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin signed the transfer order, citing concerns that their feud could escalate and damage public confidence in the police force.
This conflict traces back to last September when Torsak was chosen over the more senior Surachate for the position of national police chief. Surachate had been a strong contender for the role, but just before the appointment, his house in Bangkok was raided by armed officers over allegations of online gambling. Many suspect the timing of the raid was intended to derail Surachate’s chances of securing the top position.
Despite this setback, Surachate’s career trajectory has been impressive. Born to a junior policeman in Songkhla province, he excelled academically and athletically, earning recognition at prestigious institutions like the Armed Forces Academies Preparatory School and the Royal Police Cadet Academy. He swiftly climbed the ranks in the police force, holding positions of increasing responsibility and earning promotions at a relatively young age.
However, Surachate has faced adversity before. In 2019, then-Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha not only removed him from his police role but also transferred him out of the force entirely, placing him in the civil service. Despite this setback, Surachate made a comeback in 2021, returning to the Royal Thai Police in a new role. But his career was once again marred by allegations of involvement in an online gambling scandal, leading to an arrest warrant for money laundering.
Nevertheless, some remain optimistic about Surachate’s future. Pol Maj-General Pairot Kuchiraphan, president of the Inquiry Official Association of Thailand, believes Surachate has the potential to restore his reputation and rise to the top of the police force, especially considering his relatively young age of 54. He still has six years ahead of him, leaving room for a possible resurgence in his career.
