In response to the growing concern over the prevalence of firearms in Thailand, the government is escalating its efforts to address this pressing issue. Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Srettha Thavisin, in consultation with key agencies and discussions with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Anutin Charnvirakul, has called for heightened scrutiny within this domain.
To bolster market expansion with foreign nations, representatives from the Thai Ambassadors and the Foreign Affairs Ministry have been summoned for crucial deliberations.
The Ministry of Interior has taken a decisive step by instructing the Department of Local Administration to temporarily halt the issuance of gun permits to the general public. Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul underlined this move, emphasizing the existing legal frameworks that already safeguard the populace and ensure their safety. This decision was prompted by a recent shootout incident in Bangkok, which spotlighted the necessity for reevaluation.
The rationale behind suspending the issuance of gun permits to the public lies in the belief that the current legal provisions adequately secure the citizens. Therefore, there appears to be no immediate need for open possession or carrying of firearms by the public. Individuals who currently possess firearms are strongly urged to store them securely, out of the reach of others, even within their own households. The objective is to strictly abide by the law concerning the possession and carrying of firearms.
Deputy Prime Minister Anutin stressed the importance of reporting any threats to the police or local administrative officers for the safety of individuals, rather than resorting to the use of firearms. He also emphasized the implementation of stringent inspections for acquiring and possessing firearms, encompassing related items such as BB-GUNs, toy guns, and bullets. The department will exercise close vigilance over the import and sale of these items, applying necessary restrictions.
On a related note, Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang discussed the potential revision of regulations pertaining to imitation firearms. However, he clarified that the jurisdiction over such matters rests with the Ministry of Interior. The Ministry of Defence primarily focuses on weaponry used in war. He highlighted the imperative for military and police units, as the principal custodians of significant weapon stocks, to ensure safe storage and strict adherence to protocols. Valuable lessons were drawn from the tragic Nakhon Ratchasima shooting incident, underlining the importance of family members remaining vigilant regarding behaviors, particularly those associated with drugs or mental health issues.
Government Spokesperson Chai Watcharong unveiled the Prime Minister’s directive for the expedited implementation of an ‘Emergency Alert System,’ specifically tailored for firearm-related incidents. The directive underscores a comprehensive approach, encompassing tightened control over imitation firearms and a call for enhanced security measures at vital locations. Notably, such directives do not require a committee and empower the Prime Minister to exercise immediate authority, instructing various agencies to take swift and decisive action in this critical matter.
