CHIANG MAI – police officers are now using advanced drone technology to catch traffic violators and stop fleeing criminals. The Bhuping Rajanivej Police Station started using these flying cameras directly at local checkpoints this week. According to a report by MGR Online, this new strategy helps officers see the road from high above.
Key Takeaways
- Advanced Aerial Surveillance: The Bhuping Police Station has deployed new drone patrols to monitor checkpoints and stop drivers who try to flee.
- Large Regional Investment: Chiang Mai Provincial Police purchased 40 high-tech drones using a 2 million Baht budget grant.
- Better Tactical Training: Officers received specialized training to handle modern crimes like drug smuggling, hostage issues, and traffic control.
Pol. Col. Sinothai Lilittham, the chief of Bhuping Rajanivej Police Station, ordered the immediate launch of the drone unit. Pol. Lt. Col. Kiartisak Phadga and Pol. Maj. Naraphat Boonchaisuwan assisted in managing the deployment on the ground. Pol. Sub. Lt. Petch Saneewong led the active patrol team during the initial setup.
The main goal of the drone team is to spot suspicious cars before they reach police checkpoints. The flying cameras can easily track drivers who make illegal U-turns to avoid the police. Drones also record high-quality video footage of any vehicle that tries to smash through the barriers.

Specialized Training for Modern Crime
This new drone program started right after an official law enforcement meeting on June 11, 2026. Pol. Lt. Gen. Krittapon Yisakhon, the commander of Provincial Police Region 5, led the tactical launch event. The agency called this new program the “Six-Man Team and Drone Patrol” initiative.
This training program helps local officers improve their tactical skills against modern criminal networks. Officers learned how to use the drones during high-risk scenarios like hostage situations and major drug busts. The aerial tools also help protect important VIP guests and manage heavy tourist traffic around Chiang Mai.
The Chiang Mai Provincial Police Department bought 40 drones to share among various local stations. These flying devices give investigators a major advantage when tracking suspects through crowded city streets. The drones also help traffic police monitor road accidents and clear traffic jams much faster.
The Chiang Mai Police Saving Cooperative Limited provided the funding for this massive technology upgrade. The cooperative donated 2 million Baht to buy the equipment and train the operators. This financial gift shows a strong community effort to keep the northern province safe for residents and international tourists.

Protecting the Public with Technology
The police department wants to create a unified standard for all officers using drone equipment. Using the same tools allows different police stations to work together seamlessly during big emergencies. Fast aerial tracking helps reduce the time it takes to catch dangerous suspects on the highway.
Local leaders believe that adding drones to standard checkpoints will prevent accidents and reduce crime. The aerial view keeps ground officers safe because they can see hidden dangers ahead of time. This modern approach aims to build stronger trust between the public and local law enforcement teams.
With 40 drones now in the sky, Chiang Mai police are ready to handle modern security challenges. The combination of well-trained officers and smart technology makes the city much safer. Passersby will likely see these small aircraft hovering near major intersections and safety checkpoints regularly.
Trending Thailand News:
Tragic Electrocution in Chiang Mai Leaves Mother and Son Dead
Chiang Mai Police Bust Massive Chinese Scammer Den in Luxury Villas




