Thailand govt enforces stricter background checks for gun ownership, existing owners will be monitored

Thailand has announced stricter gun control measures across the country on Feb. 19.

According to The Nation, deputy government spokesperson Aiyarin Phanrit said that the move follows "urgent directives" by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to comprehensively review and enforce tighter gun control regulations.

The directives will cover various gun-related permits to increase public safety, reported Bangkok Post.

Enhanced screening processes for new gun buyers

Based on the new measures, applications to purchase a firearm will face rigorous scrutiny.

Local registrars are required to conduct thorough background checks on every applicant to assess their personal conduct, associations and any possible links to unlawful activities.

The directive by the Department of Provincial Administration aims to enhance public safety, and safeguard lives and property.

Current gun owners to be monitored

The new measures will also affect existing firearms owners in Thailand.

Those who already hold a gun ownership licence will be continuously observed by local authorities and community leaders to ensure they continue to meet eligibility criteria based on their behaviour.

If a licence holder is deemed to be endangering public order, authorities are instructed to take decisive administrative and criminal measures.

Gun owners not allowed to carry weapons in public

The Thailand Ministry of Interior will also extend its temporary suspension of public gun-carrying licences.

Such permits have been suspended since December 2023, and no carry licences will be issued to members of the public as part of efforts to lower the risk of violent crime.

Aiyarin also reminded the public that carrying a firearm in public areas — including cities, villages or on public roads — without a legitimate urgent reason remains a serious offence.

Those holding P.4 licence permits should only keep the firearm solely at their residence for self-defence purposes.

In Thailand, those found guilty of carrying guns in public without valid permits may be jailed for up to five years, fined up to 10,000 baht (S$406), or both.

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