Justice Minister Clarifies Gun Permit Rules for Special Cases Bureau
Justice Minister Rutthapol Nueamwarat clarified that DSI officers may carry firearms only with permits and approval from the DSI Commissioner, following the Prime Minister's new policy restricting government officials from carrying guns wit
Justice Minister Rutthapol Nueamwarat addressed the Prime Minister Anuthins Charnweerakul's policy restricting government officials from carrying firearms within the Department of Special Investigation (DSI). According to internal regulations, some DSI officers may carry guns if they have a permit and are on active duty, with a two-tier verification system requiring confirmation from the DSI Commissioner.
When asked what additional measures would be implemented under this policy, Rutthapol stated that he has instructed DSI personnel—those who require firearms for official duties—to obtain authorization from the DSI Commissioner for both government-issued weapons and personal firearms.
Regarding his own firearm, Rutthapol revealed he keeps a gun at home with proper licensing documentation for property protection, a practice he has maintained since joining the police force. He emphasized that he does not carry the weapon, especially now under the new directive. He also confirmed that the Prime Minister issued the directive both at a Phum Jai Thai party meeting on August 11 and at a Cabinet meeting, with instructions to conduct random checks even on the Prime Minister's own staff, which he views as a positive enforcement measure.