The government is tightening controls, instructing registrars nationwide to strictly regulate firearm licenses P.3 and P.4, continue suspending P.12 licenses, reiterate that carrying guns in public can result in five years imprisonment, and ordering local authorities to conduct random inspections and rigorously enforce the law.
On 19 February 2026, Ms. Airin Punrit, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office, stated that following directives from Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul to enforce strict and serious firearm control, the government through the Department of Provincial Administration, Ministry of Interior, has urgently instructed local officials nationwide to intensify firearm control measures in all aspects to enhance public safety of life and property as follows.
1. For issuing firearm purchase licenses (P.3), local registrars nationwide are instructed to increase rigor in assessing applicants' qualifications by strictly verifying disqualifications under Section 13 of the Firearms Act B.E. 2490 (1947), and thoroughly investigating personal conduct, close associates, and any history of involvement with illegal activities.
2. For supervising firearm license holders (P.4), local registrars and administrative officers must monitor and oversee licensees through a network of state officials, including village heads and community members, to ensure licensees continue to meet all qualifications. If any behavior threatening public order is found, local registrars must enforce administrative and criminal laws decisively.
3. Temporary suspension of carrying firearm licenses (P.12) remains in effect. The Ministry of Interior continues the measure halting issuance of permits to carry firearms since 20 December 2023 to reduce risks of crime and violent incidents in public. Officials are strictly prohibited from issuing P.12 licenses to the general public.
“The government reminds that carrying firearms in towns, villages, or public places without valid reason is an offense under Criminal Code Section 371 and Firearms Act B.E. 2490 Section 8 bis. Even licensed firearm holders (P.4) have no right to carry guns in public and must store them at home to protect life and property, except in urgent necessity. Violations carry penalties of up to five years imprisonment, a fine up to 10,000 baht, or both, according to Section 72 bis, second paragraph,” Ms. Airin said.