To add a distinctive touch to security protocols and ensure a natural and comfortable atmosphere for Thailand's Prime Minister during her recent visit to Vietnam, the Command of the Guard Force deployed four young and graceful female officers for close protection.

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Four female officers directly guarded and accompanied the Thai Prime Minister. Photo: Ministry of Public Security

In mid-May, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra paid an official visit to Vietnam at the invitation of Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh.

To guarantee absolute safety for the Thai leader, the Department for Protection of Special Events and International Guests under the Command of the Guard Force submitted a comprehensive security plan that accounted for safety, ceremonial, and diplomatic considerations.

In particular, the department proposed and received approval to assign only female officers for close protection duties. This unprecedented move aimed to create a meaningful impression and contribute to a positive perception of Vietnam’s security forces by the Thai delegation.

Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Ngoc Nha, Deputy Head of the Department for Protection of Special Events and International Guests, noted that Paetongtarn Shinawatra is Thailand's youngest-ever female prime minister and a significant figure both politically and on social media.

Appointing female officers for her security not only underscored professionalism in national security but also represented a diplomatic gesture that aligned with Vietnam’s commitment to sincere, respectful, and warm international relations.

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This marks the first time the Guard Command deployed an all-female close protection team. Photo: Ministry of Public Security.

With leadership approval, the department selected four female officers to closely accompany and protect the Thai Prime Minister. The lead protector was Captain Nguyen Thu Huong.

According to the Ministry of Public Security, this was the first time in history that the Guard Command assigned an entirely female team for close protection of a visiting head of state. These young officers were chosen not only for their professional excellence but also due to their relatability to the young Thai leader.

Each of the selected officers graduated with honors from prestigious police academies and completed rigorous close protection training, including tactical defense, martial arts, and firearms skills.

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The Thai Prime Minister’s successful visit to Vietnam was supported by the dedication of these female officers. Photo: Ministry of Public Security.

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Photo: Ministry of Public Security

These women have already participated in the security of numerous international leaders during visits to Vietnam, including the Presidents of the United States and Russia, as well as the General Secretary and President of China.

They also played crucial roles in securing major national events such as the 13th National Congress of the Communist Party, the 70th anniversary of the Dien Bien Phu victory, and the 50th anniversary of national reunification.

Captain Nguyen Thu Huong shared: "This is my first time serving as the lead close protection officer for a foreign head of state. When my commanders entrusted me with the task, I felt both honored and anxious – proud to be trusted, but aware of the weight of the responsibility."

Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Ngoc Nha also shared that every time a female officer opened the car door for Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, she would smile warmly and offer a friendly gesture to the guard – a clear sign that she felt safe and comfortable.

Dinh Hieu