Anutin says no exceptions to public gun ban

Bangkok, August 11, 2026 - Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul declared a strict ban on civilians carrying firearms outside their residences, warning that violators, including politicians and sport shooters, would face imprisonment. Speaking at Government House, Anutin announced that the government had set in motion the drafting of a new firearms law following his directive to Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilprapunt.

The Interior Ministry and Royal Thai Police were ordered to cease renewing licenses for firearms under categories Por. 3, Por. 4, and Por. 12 until the Cabinet's decision. The enforcement of the ban would involve increased surveillance, with police and administrative officials setting up specialized checkpoints to focus on firearms and drugs.

Anutin emphasized that police would oppose bail during investigations, potentially leading to suspects being held in custody. He also stated that ammunition would be regulated under the new law. Concerning online gun sales, Anutin confirmed that the issue was clear: individuals without a valid license would not be able to possess a firearm.

The government would work with prosecutors and courts to expedite the handling of gun-related cases. Registered firearms were permitted to be kept at home, whereas illegal firearms would need to be surrendered within a period to be determined by law. Inheritances, including certain firearms, could also be handed in without facing legal repercussions during a designated grace period.

Civilians, who are not state officials performing official duties, were prohibited from carrying firearms outside their homes, with the rule applying to competitive shooters as well. Guns used for training would require storage at shooting ranges, and shooters would purchase and use ammunition at these facilities. Anutin reiterated that there would be no exceptions to the rule.

He advised families to be vigilant of threatening or violent behavior by relatives who own guns. Despite the ban, Anutin acknowledged that using a firearm to defend oneself against an intruder inside the home could still be deemed unlawful. He cautioned that guns should not be kept close at hand due to the risk of rash actions in moments of pressure or anger.

Anutin disclosed that he once owned guns but reported them as missing after they were lost and now did not possess any firearms. When asked about the possibility of holding a merit-making ceremony for the country after repeated violent incidents, Anutin advised that people should simply do good deeds.