The Royal Thai Police emphasized that whenever violence results in death, the justice process must examine every case to determine whether the act was lawful self-defense. They also warned that carrying firearms outside the home or in public without justifiable cause is strictly prohibited.
Today (12 August 2026), Pol. Lt. Gen. Trairong Phiwpan, Deputy Inspector General of the Royal Thai Police and spokesperson for the Royal Thai Police, addressed the circulation and interpretation on social media of the Prime Minister’s remarks regarding an intruder entering a residence and the use of a firearm resulting in the intruder's death. He clarified that when a person is shot and killed, police must investigate the facts and follow legal procedures, and cannot immediately conclude whether the shooter is at fault.
According to the Penal Code, intentionally shooting someone resulting in death is generally considered a criminal offense. However, the law provides an exception under Section 68 regarding lawful self-defense, stating that anyone who must act to protect their own or another’s rights from imminent illegal harm, and whose response is reasonable, is legally justified and not guilty.
Conversely, if the danger has ended or is no longer imminent but force or weapons continue to be used in pursuit, the situation must be assessed differently based on the facts of each case. Additionally, if the act stems from excitement, shock, or fear, the court will also consider the specific circumstances of each incident.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Trairong added that in cases of death caused by firearms, police must examine the crime scene, collect evidence, conduct forensic tests, and interview witnesses and involved parties to establish whether the threat was imminent, the deceased’s behavior, and whether the response was reasonable. This investigation process is legally required to uncover facts and ensure fairness. Decisions at each stage are made by law enforcement, prosecutors, and ultimately the courts, based on all evidence and facts.
Therefore, the essence of the Prime Minister’s statement is not that homeowners cannot defend themselves against intruders, but rather a reminder that when force causes death, the justice system must first determine whether the act was lawful self-defense, excessive force, or a criminal offense. Such decisions depend on the facts and circumstances of each case.
Furthermore, the Royal Thai Police reaffirm their implementation of the policy set by Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul to reduce social violence: "Carrying firearms outside the home, in towns, villages, or public places without justifiable cause or urgent necessity is strictly prohibited." Authorities will enforce this rigorously. The public can trust that the law protects legitimate rights, including the right to self-defense within legal boundaries.