Prime Minister Anutin reiterates the policy banning Members of Parliament from carrying firearms, noting that as public figures they must set an example. He expressed concern about ethical violations if politicians carry guns. Responding to the controversy over his statement "no shooting burglars in the home," he admitted the message was brief and intended only to highlight the dangers of guns.
At 07:35 on 12 Aug 2026 GMT+7, Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, gave an interview at Sanam Luang regarding his directive at a meeting of the Bhumjaithai Party MPs to prohibit carrying firearms, stating, "It's not just an order to MPs; currently, no one is allowed to carry guns without a license in Thailand. All gun licenses have now expired, so no one can legally carry a firearm."
When asked about several party members reportedly stockpiling firearms, the Prime Minister said it was their personal matter as they had declared their assets accordingly, adding that he emphasized, "Especially those holding political positions—not only MPs but anyone running for election—are public figures and must set an example. Since the law prohibits carrying guns, those representing the Thai people must comply and set the example. There is nothing unusual about following the law."
Regarding the Cabinet's resolution on 11 August to cancel issuing firearm licenses (Por.3), and whether that means no one can purchase guns anymore, the Prime Minister replied, "Yes, until there is a new order, we must regulate firearms strictly. There are tens of millions of guns in Thailand, which is unmanageable given the population of seventy million." (Read more:)Prime Minister Orders Cabinet to Control Entire Firearm System, Suspend Por.3 and Welfare Guns, Urges Legal Amendments Within 60 Days)
On the issue of his statement "no shooting burglars in the home," which has sparked controversy and misunderstanding, the Prime Minister responded, "There is no misunderstanding. The key point is I tried to make everyone see that firearms benefit no one. Whenever used—regardless of emergency or justification—it must be proven in court, not by oneself or the police. If such incidents occur, whether shooting someone with ill intent or otherwise, the shooter must first face charges and then be acquitted or convicted in court."
"I may have communicated too briefly, but my purpose was to discourage people from being near firearms, as they have never brought good to either those shot or those who shoot. Victims may be injured or killed, and shooters must face trial and legal processes, even if acting in self-defense. It wastes time and resources with court appearances and bail. I only want to remind people; whether they believe it or not, the law remains unchanged. It’s best to stay away from guns."
