The Metropolitan Police Chief revealed that multiple resales of police welfare guns violate regulations and are deemed improper after a police weapon from Sai Mai Police Station was found in the possession of "Ming Chen Sun," a Chinese suspect. A committee has been established to investigate the gun's transfer history over three transactions, with potential disciplinary and criminal consequences.
At 11:30 a.m. on 11 May 2026, at the Metropolitan Police Headquarters, Police Lieutenant General Siam Boonsom, the Metropolitan Police Chief, disclosed that one police firearm was found in the possession of a Chinese national in Chonburi Province. The gun originated from Sai Mai Police Station, purchased through the Metropolitan Police welfare program in 2002. It is a Glock 26, a welfare firearm issued for personal use, with clear conditions prohibiting transfer or resale. Any sale is considered improper. Since the gun was resold multiple times, the Metropolitan Police has formed a committee to verify the facts and report to Police General Kittirat Phanpetch, the Royal Thai Police Chief. The committee, established on 9 May, is investigating illegal sales or possession and any disciplinary or criminal violations. The committee will report findings accordingly.
When asked if all parties involved in the multiple transfers would be summoned, the Metropolitan Police Chief stated that everyone involved, including the Chinese individual, will be called in for questioning. According to the transfer document, the gun was inherited, but the committee will examine how the resale violated regulations. It is possible all parties may be found guilty. The committee will review evidence and documentation and take action against offenders. Preliminary checks indicate about three transfers occurred. If violations are confirmed, no leniency will be given; disciplinary and criminal prosecutions will follow. Initial inquiries suggest the first transfer involved using the money for family expenses. The committee will further review details. The firearm was originally purchased for personal use by a police officer. Official firearms undergo regular inspections. Welfare guns are prohibited from resale except by inheritance.
Regarding whether the remaining firearms, including military weapons, are connected to Sai Mai Police Station weapons, the Metropolitan Police Chief said that following reports and orders from the Royal Thai Police Chief, inspections were conducted at the former wife’s residence. No additional related firearms were found. However, investigations into connections involving the former wife or other parties will continue. He affirmed that safeguarding Bangkok remains a priority. The Metropolitan Police Intelligence Division and the Investigation Division of Metropolitan Police Division 3 have been instructed to investigate any further involvement.
As for the origin year of the firearms, the committee is tasked with clarifying the transfer path to the Chinese individual—who the intermediaries were, and the intent behind the purchase. The Royal Thai Police Chief has consistently ordered strict enforcement against illegal firearms possession. The Prime Minister has also instructed prosecution of those possessing firearms who are not responsible police officers.
When asked if the firearms are connected to Bangkok, the Metropolitan Police Chief said the Metropolitan Police have coordinated with Region 2 Police to prevent and monitor threats. How the Chinese suspect will respond is his right, but as law enforcement, the Royal Thai Police must continue investigating to prevent violent incidents in Bangkok. Strict measures are necessary since Bangkok is the capital and faces significant events later this year. Whether involving terrorism or firearms, regular inspections will continue. Regardless of the suspect’s statements, police must take all preventive steps. The police are verifying information amid ongoing coordination. Regarding the military, the Navy and Chonburi Provincial Police are conducting their own investigations. Regardless of criticism or unknowns, Bangkok must maintain a high security alert to prevent mass shootings.