5-10-2023 (BANGKOK) Following a recent shooting incident in a Bangkok shopping mall that left two dead and five injured, Thailand is taking significant steps to enhance gun control. Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has unveiled seven short-term measures aimed at improving public safety and regulating firearms more effectively. These measures come in response to growing concerns about the security of firearms in the country.
The short-term measures, discussed during a meeting involving various government agencies, are designed to address public anxiety and ensure better control of firearms. Minister Anutin has emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of existing gun control laws. The ultimate goal is to limit firearm possession to authorized individuals only, enhancing overall public safety.
The seven short-term measures are as follows:
- Suspension of Firearms Permits: A nationwide suspension of permits for importing and trading both real and imitation firearms has been imposed. No new licenses will be issued.
- Registration of Blank Guns and Imitation Firearms: People in possession of blank guns, BB guns, or imitation firearms that can be be modified into functioning weapons are required to register them with firearms registration offices in their respective areas.
- Customs Department Scrutiny: The Customs Department will intensify inspections of blank guns, BB guns, and imitation firearms at ports to monitor and control their importation.
- Age Restrictions at Shooting Ranges: The Sports Authority of Thailand will prohibit individuals under 20 years of age from entering shooting ranges, unless authorized. Firearms brought to the ranges must be registered, and removal of ammunition is prohibited. Guns owned by members of shooting ranges must remain within the facilities, except with proper permission.
- Halt in Issuing Public Carry Permits: Provincial governors will stop issuing permits for individuals to carry guns in public.
- Government Officials’ Firearms: While the Ministry of Interior does not have a policy to issue guns to the general public, government officials responsible for crime prevention and suppression may possess one firearm each. In the event of their death, these firearms will be inherited by their heirs.
- Suspension of Firearms Imports by Gun Shops: Firearms registration officials will stop issuing permits for gun shops to import firearms and ammunition until further notice. The opening of new gun shops will also be temporarily prohibited.
Additionally, Interior Minister Anutin has instructed the police and the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DES) to take action against websites selling illegal and imitation guns. These entities are required to provide progress reports to the Interior Ministry every 15 days.
The minister’s personal view is that licenses for public firearm possession should be restricted, with government authorities being the primary permit holders. He emphasized the need to prevent individuals from carrying guns for personal conflicts.
The stricter regulations aim to ensure that shooting ranges are securely managed, and minors are not allowed to engage in shooting activities.
