The Permanent Secretary of the Interior revealed that Phuket administrative officials set up a checkpoint and searched a BMW on Phuket Island, discovering a gun and 30 rounds of ammunition. The suspect was handed over to the police for prosecution with the maximum penalty. Authorities also warned the public that violating laws by carrying firearms in public places will lead to severe punishment.
On 11 Aug 2026, Mr. Assit Sampanrat, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, reported on a comprehensive operation to enhance safety measures for people's lives and property following directives from Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. Since 7 Aug, provincial administrative officials, in coordination with police, have been rigorously establishing checkpoints and roadblocks, especially to prevent and intercept the carrying of firearms in public areas.
Mr. Assit stated that last night (10 Aug), Mr. Chotinrin Kerdsom, Governor of Phuket, assigned Lt. Col. Khetrath Chansilp, Deputy Governor of Phuket and Acting Security Advisor of the Ministry of Interior, together with Mr. Siwatch Rawangkul, District Chief of Mueang Phuket acting as Provincial Permanent Secretary, to direct administrative forces from Mueang Phuket District Office. They set up a checkpoint in Ko Kaeo Subdistrict, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket Province, where a suspicious BMW car was stopped and searched. Authorities found a CZ brand firearm with a magazine loaded with 30 rounds hidden under the driver's seat. The driver, Mr. Nat (surname withheld), 29, could not show licenses to possess or carry firearms. Officials arrested him and charged him with unauthorized carrying of a firearm in public and unauthorized possession. He was taken with the evidence to the Mueang Phuket Police Station for prosecution under the maximum legal penalties.
Mr. Assit further warned those aware they are violating the law, especially individuals carrying firearms in their cars or public places, that this is a serious offense. Such individuals cannot claim self-defense or other reasons since the Prime Minister and Interior Minister have issued a temporary ban on issuing permits to carry firearms (Form Por.12) effective for one year from 20 Feb 2026. Administrative officials across provinces continue to maintain checkpoints and conduct searches in suspicious areas. Unauthorized, unregistered firearms will face the maximum penalties under the law. He urged those aware of their illegal possession to surrender their unregistered firearms at district offices. If caught during inspections, they will face the highest legal penalties.
"If citizens have information about illegal firearm possession or individuals carrying firearms in public or at public events, please report to the Damrongtham Center at hotline 1567 so that administrative officials can take action to control, arrest, and prosecute according to the law," he said.
