A Mae Ping policeman on horseback in Chiang Mai has become a local celebrity with local travellers as he makes his patrols around Muang district.
Pol Lt Uthai Sudsaneh is often flocked by curious children asking for a ride when he shows up in various communities. His equestrian approach has created a new way for police and residents to communicate.
Pol Lt Uthai goes on mounted patrol to visit residents of tambon San Phi Sua everyday, making a first round in the morning and another in the evening.
He said he is part of a mounted police programme -- a joint project of Pol Col Eknathipat Akarapongthiti, the Mae Ping police chief, and Lak Boonchala, the mayor of tambon San Phi Sua.
Mr Lak came up with the idea of setting up a mounted police unit because he has seven horses and parts of the tambon are grasslands filled with brush, difficult terrain for foot patrols.
The mayor allowed police to use his horse for patrol, starting in May. The programme has drawn much attention from the local people.
Pol Lt Uthai said he has found it more convenient to gain access to people in villages and has been successful in asking them to act as crime watchdogs.