Surachate Hakparn, aka "Big Joke", removed on Friday as Immigration Bureau chief, reported to the Royal Thai Police head office on Monday after vanishing from the limelight since his reassignment, a police source said.
The once rising star of the police force arrived at the headquarters to report to his new superior and left immediately after that, according to the source.
He did not appear worried during his visit to the office, the source said.
On Friday night, Pol Lt Gen Surachate was hit with a surprise transfer order sending him to the Royal Thai Police Operations Centre. The order was signed by national police chief Chakthip Chaijinda. No reasons were given.
Pol Lt Gen Surachate's new role will likely now not involve contact with the general public. It is speculated his new appointment will be as a commissioner who coordinates with the PM's Office.
The source said Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon, who heads the Police Commission, has given Pol Gen Chakthip the final say in selecting the candidates for Pol Lt Gen Surachate's replacement.
The source said at least three candidates will be vying for the Immigration Bureau's top seat.
The source added it was thought an IB deputy commissioner might be put in charge as acting commissioner. However, Gen Prawit preferred to have a new chief installed immediately and start the job right away.
Pol Lt Gen Surachate was reported to retain close ties to Gen Prawit.