SATTAHIP, THAILAND – Police staged a full-scale anti-robbery drill at a local gold shop to test readiness and bolster security for traders and residents amid sharply rising gold prices.
Gold shop drill amid price surge
On 29 January 2026 around 1 p.m., officers from Sattahip Police Station conducted a simulated armed robbery at a gold shop in the district. The operation was designed as a full-scale exercise that reproduced a real emergency situation as closely as possible.
At the center of the drill was the Rapid Mobile Unit (Special Operations – ป.พิเศษ), which acted as the primary intervention force. Its tactics were geared towards speed, precision and clear operational procedures.
Senior commanders oversee operation
The exercise was supervised by Pol. Col. Komsan Khamtunkaeo, chief of Sattahip Police Station. He was joined by Pol. Lt. Col. Chanat Nawakunrangsi, deputy chief for crime suppression, and Pol. Lt. Col. Sila Saijai, head of operations.
Operational command during the drill rested with Pol. Lt. Col. Kosol Sila, specialist head of operational deployments. He coordinated a combined force of motorized patrol cars, motorcycle units and the core team of the Rapid Mobile Unit (Special Operations).
Special unit secures scene within set timeframe
During the exercise, the ป.พิเศษ unit demonstrated a structured and closely coordinated approach. According to the operational description, it was characterized by high mobility, precise target approach and systematic radio communication.
Within the specified time limit, officers neutralized the simulated threat and secured the crime scene. According to those responsible, this reflected months of training and a high level of operational readiness for serious violent crimes.
Deterrence and reassurance for gold traders
Police said the drill underlined the role of the Rapid Mobile Unit (Special Operations) as the front line in tackling violent crime. The operation was also intended as a signal to gold traders and residents that Sattahip was protected by capable and specialized forces.
“Public drills of this kind are meant to strengthen confidence in the security authorities.”
said local police officials.
Rising gold prices seen as robbery risk factor
Local authorities pointed out that rising gold prices increased the attractiveness of gold shops for criminals. During periods of rapid price gains, the risk of armed robberies targeting precious metal dealers was said to rise.
To counter this, police in Sattahip relied on preventive emergency drills in sensitive sectors, fast response times by specialized mobile units and a visible presence of motorized patrols and motorcycle teams. According to those in charge, further measures of this kind formed part of a long-term strategy to deter potential offenders and ensure a rapid, coordinated response in real emergencies.