PW-2-2026

IPA News

Thailand - A Special IPA Moment in Hua Hin By Philippeit Rainer A special and memorable moment came for me, as member of the IPA Section of Austria, living in Thailand, when Peta Kofi, member of the British IPA Section and from Liverpool, became the first official IPA guest at the IPA MEETING POINT Hua Hin. With this visit, a small but meaningful chapter of IPA history was written in Hua Hin, Thailand. Following a very warm and open introductory conversation, we took Peta on a short tour to showcase some of the beautiful areas of the Thai seaside town of Hua Hin. The exchange continued during a shared dinner, where we discussed the values of the IPA, international friendship, policing experiences and many other inspiring topics. With her sincere, open-minded and uncomplicated

manner, Peta quickly became a valued friend. As a result of this positive encounter, a longer informational and exploratory tour of the Hua Hin surroundings was planned. Once again, the true spirit of the IPA was clearly felt and genuinely lived today – transcending borders, cultures and distances. Thank you IPA.

A Proud Moment for the Lincolnshire Branch The Lincolnshire Branch of the International Police Association (IPA) is delighted to announce that the Chief Constable of Lincolnshire Police, Mr Paul Gibson, has graciously agreed to become the official Patron of the Branch. This development represents a significant and symbolic step for the Branch, strengthening the historic connection between Lincolnshire Police and the organisation it helped bring into being. The International Police Association was founded in 1950 by Sergeant Arthur Troop of Lincolnshire Constabulary. His simple but powerful vision was to create a friendship organisation for police officers across the world, promoting international cooperation, understanding and camaraderie. From these beginnings in Lincolnshire, the IPA has grown into the largest police association in the world, now with members in more than 60 countries.

For that reason, Lincolnshire holds a special place in the history of the IPA. It is the county where the idea was born and where the foundations of the organisation were laid. The support of the Chief Constable of Lincolnshire Police as Patron therefore carries a particular resonance, recognising the force’s historic connection to the Association and reaffirming the spirit of cooperation and friendship that the IPA represents. In accepting the role, the Chief Constable demonstrates the continuing relationship between Lincolnshire Police and the IPA, and the value placed on the organisation’s ethos of Servo per Amikeco — Service Through Friendship. Members of the Lincolnshire Branch warmly welcome the Chief Constable’s support. His patronage not only honours the legacy of Arthur Troop but also highlights the continuing relevance of the IPA’s ideals in modern policing. The Branch looks forward to working with the Chief Constable in promoting the values of the Association and supporting its activities both locally and internationally. As the founding force of the International Police Association, Lincolnshire Police occupies a unique place in the story of the organisation. The Chief Constable’s patronage of the Lincolnshire Branch is therefore more than a ceremonial gesture — it is a reaffirmation of a proud heritage and a commitment to the enduring principles upon which the IPA was founded. The Lincolnshire Branch extends its sincere thanks to the Chief Constable for his support and looks forward to a continuing partnership that reflects the proud history of the IPA in its birthplace. The attached photograph shows the Chair of Lincolnshire Branch, Colin Clarkson presenting the Chief Constable Paul Gibson with the Patron Certificate. Also, present is the Secretary, Chris Morgan.

POLICE WORLD Vol 71 No.2, 2026

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