Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has endorsed the transfer of Deputy National Police Commissioner Pol Gen Roy Ingkapairote to the position of National Security Council (NSC) chief.

Secretary general to the prime minister, Prommin Lertsuridej, has submitted an urgent request to the Royal Thai Police regarding the transfer.

The transfer is seen as a consolation post for Roy, who missed the chance to be promoted to the top police post last year, despite being the most senior deputy national police chief.

Instead, the position went to Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol, the second most senior deputy police commissioner.

It has been anticipated that the premier, also chair of the Police Commission, would find a consolation position for Roy, who is set to retire this September.

The position of NSC Chief has traditionally been held by non-NSC officials, usually from the military.

Roy will replace Gen Supoj Malaniyom, a former Joint Chief of Staff, who retired last September.