The Interior Ministry Secretary has ordered strict firearm checkpoints, pointing out that recent tragic incidents mostly involve registered firearms. There are plans to convene all provincial governors to issue further directives.
On 10 August 2026 at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani, Mr. Arsit Sampantharat, Secretary of the Interior Ministry, commented on the Prime Minister’s directive regarding nationwide firearm checkpoints. He said the Prime Minister has instructed police and local administrative officials to jointly operate special firearm checkpoints. Although such operations were already in place, they now must be intensified due to the increasing frequency of incidents. Notably, most firearms used are now registered, unlike previously unlicensed weapons. For example, in the case of a student incident at Debsirin School in Nonthaburi, the firearm used belonged to the student’s grandfather. Similarly, the shooting of the Nonthaburi Provincial Administrative Organization chief involved a registered firearm. Thus, stricter enforcement is necessary.
The Interior Ministry Secretary stated that the Prime Minister has a clear policy prohibiting the carrying of firearms, especially since firearm carry permits (Por 12) are no longer issued to anyone. Therefore, if anyone is found carrying a firearm in public, authorities can arrest them immediately. He also emphasized to provincial governors attending the security measures meeting that especially in government offices and places with large gatherings, weapon screening must be strictly enforced before entry. The recent incident occurred inside the Provincial Administrative Organization building, so extra caution is required.
When asked whether the Interior Ministry would issue an official announcement to reiterate the policy, Mr. Arsit said the ministry has already issued such a declaration. However, there may be a forthcoming nationwide meeting with all provincial governors to emphasize enforcement guidelines again. Preparations for this meeting are currently underway.