But other officers without special connections include those with good performance records, such as Pol Colonel Watchara Ngamkham, now the chief of Thamma Sala station, whose jurisdiction covers a new palace of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn in western Bangkok.

Pol Lt Colonel Chalothorn Sri-watcharaphong, now Nong Chok police chief, will be the chief of Dusit station, which covers Chitralada Palace, where Their Majesties the King and Queen reside.

Dusit station chief Pol Colonel Chakri Phoophansri, who has close ties with former premier Chuan Leekpai, was promoted to deputy commander of Metropolitan Police Division 1, partly for his non-violent handling of anti-Thaksin rallies in areas under his jurisdiction before the September 19 coup.

Pol Colonel Karin Kreekaew has been promoted to deputy commander of the Traffic Police Division. He was instrumental in encouraging his police subordinates to use non-violent approaches towards anti-Thaksin protesters.

Pol Colonel Khanischai Mahintharathep, who helped solve the murder case in which a doctor killed his wife and dismembered her body, has been promoted to chief of the Criminal Investigation Subdivision 1.

Pol Colonel Phong-siam Meekhanthong becomes the youngest station chief in Bangkok being promoted to head Lumpini police station - regarded as one of the Class-A stations. He was an aide to former police chief Sant Sarutanont.

Pol Colonel Suriya Yooyen is promoted to superintendent running an administrative unit. A non-police cadet, Suriya reportedly has close ties with Privy Council President Prem Tinsulanonda.