Bangkok: The Royal Thai Police have announced the passing of Pol. Gen. Kowit Wattana, a former Commissioner General and a significant figure known as the “Jungle Police” legend. He died peacefully at the age of 78 at Police Hospital.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Gen. Kowit was a notable figure in Thai law enforcement, having served as Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Interior. His career began in Phak Hai District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, and he was an alumnus of the Royal Thai Armed Forces Preparatory School and the Royal Thai Police Cadet School.
Pol. Gen. Kowit held critical positions within the Border Patrol Police, rising to Commander in 1994. He later became Assistant Commissioner General and Deputy Commissioner General, playing a pivotal role in overseeing the southern border region during times of unrest. On October 1, 2004, he was appointed as the 4th Commissioner General of the Royal Thai Police, during which he vigorously supported the “Village Scout” movement.
In his book “Mr. Kowit, the Jungle Policeman,” published upon his retirement, he expressed his pride in serving the Thai monarchy, highlighting it as the greatest honor of his career. After his tenure as Commissioner General, he served as Minister of Interior under Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej and later as Deputy Prime Minister during Yingluck Shinawatra’s government.
Pol. Gen. Kowit Wattana remains a respected and admired figure among police officers, particularly within the Border Patrol Police. His life and career exemplified the virtues of sacrifice, endurance, and integrity, serving as a role model for the “jungle police” and the broader law enforcement community.