Anutin says shooting burglar at home still breaks Thai law

Anutin, the former Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand, asserted on August 11 that homeowners who shoot burglars within their residences still contravene Thai law. At Government House, Anutin detailed proposals for more stringent gun regulations nationwide. The government is hastening the development of a new firearms law, and officials have instructed agencies to temporarily halt renewing licenses for three firearm categories—Por 3, Por 4, and Por 12—until the Cabinet makes a decision.

Anutin highlighted intensified monitoring of firearms and drug checkpoints, already detecting illicit activities the previous night. He advocated opposing bail for individuals caught with firearms during the crackdown. He cautioned against carrying firearms for personal defense, emphasizing that guns should remain indoors. The proposed legislation would also regulate ammunition storage.

Regarding online firearm sales, Anutin called for harsher penalties, including expedited court proceedings and opposition to bail for offenders. Legally registered firearms would need to be stored at home, with owners prohibited from carrying them outside. Even sport shooters must adhere to these rules, storing firearms at designated ranges and managing ammunition purchases and usage records.

Violators face severe consequences: “Right now, carrying firearms is 100% prohibited. If you do it, you are breaking the law and will go to prison.” Anutin’s proposals extend to sport shooters, mandating practice firearms to be kept at shooting ranges, with ammunition purchased on-site and usage meticulously recorded.

The new law could permit a deadline for surrendering illegal firearms without penalty, to be determined by the legislation. Displaying violent behavior while armed would warrant monitoring by family members. Anutin reiterated that possessing a firearm outdoors remains illegal, stating that ignorance of the law does not exempt individuals.

He warned against ministerial aides or close associates carrying guns unless they are duty-bound police officers. When queried about self-defense scenarios within the home, Anutin reiterated that shooting a burglar indoors still violates Thai law. He argued that gun ownership could heighten the likelihood of impulsive actions, primarily risking harm to innocent parties, including children. Anutin previously owned a firearm but reported it missing and currently refrains from firearm possession.