Smart Patrol Training in Thungyai Naresuan West Wildlife Sanctuary

By Kraiwut Rijiravanich | Views: 1221 | April 20, 2016

Patrol activity has been continually developed in Thungyai Naresuan West Wildlife Sanctuary (TYW) since 2005. A smart patrol system is being used successfully in TYW. However, dealing with threats is difficult because of a lack in knowledge and experience in gathering intelligence. Accordingly, gathering intelligence with technique and planning leads to offender allegations and arrests.

In addition, there is a high dynamic of TYW ranger recruitment; thus, training for ranger capacity building for both new and current rangers is important in order to cope with various kinds of threats within the areas.

Therefore, WCS Thailand Program and the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation arranged a refresher training ‘SMART PATROL’ in Thungyai Naresuan West Wildlife Sanctuary in Kanchanaburi Province during March 28 – April 3, 2016. With collaboration from the Border Patrol Police, 35 forest rangers have been trained with high level techniques for effective patrolling in their responsible areas.

Overall, patrol rangers learned and practiced patrol techniques, teamwork, arrest and weapon use instructed by a team of Border Patrol Police. Additionally, there was a scene simulation for practicing intelligence gathering.

Each ranger registered and received training materials and field gears supported by WCS

Pre and post physical strength tests consisting of sit-up, push-up, squat thrust and 1.5 km running

Refreshing patrol techniques, inspection, arrest and close quarters battle practice

Scene simulation for practice on a small operation unit during day time

Scene simulation for practice on a small operation unit during night time

Outdoor practice – scene simulation of operational planning for intelligence gathering (e.g., tracking suspects for some information and then making a plan for arrest, etc.)