PM Vows to End Gun Violence, Bans Civilians From Carrying Firearms
Following a deadly school shooting in Nonthaburi province, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced a government directive banning civilian firearm possession to prevent future tragedies and protect public safety.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul presided over a ceremony at Government House on August 7, 2025, to award outstanding village headmen and local administrators in recognition of their dedicated service to their communities.
Anutin addressed the tragic school shooting in Nonthaburi province that morning, in which teachers and students were shot, resulting in deaths and injuries. He emphasized that such incidents cannot be allowed to happen again, as they devastate families, cause severe psychological trauma to survivors, and undermine society itself.
Anutin stated that his Interior Ministry has consistently refused to permit ordinary civilians to carry firearms since he took office three years ago. He explained that gun ownership among the general public serves no legitimate purpose and only increases the risk of tragedy when people lose rational control. "We must eliminate the tools that enable such violence," he said, noting that despite past criticism from weapons dealers, he prioritizes social safety over commercial interests.
Anutin acknowledged that previous governments lacked the parliamentary majority to amend weapons laws, but his current administration will now work to strengthen legislation for maximum public safety. He announced that the government has issued a directive—signed by both the Prime Minister and the Interior Minister—prohibiting firearm possession except for authorized government officials performing official duties.
Anutin called on village headmen and local administrators to enforce this directive strictly. "Even government officials cannot carry firearms off-duty," he stated, urging community leaders to identify and prosecute anyone illegally carrying guns in their areas without exception. He warned that allowing illegal gun ownership is like closing the barn door after the cattle have escaped, and noted that even untrained gun owners pose a greater danger than skilled ones because they may shoot indiscriminately.
Anutin expressed deep sorrow for the families of victims and all students and teachers affected by the day's shooting. He announced that his government will urgently deploy mental health teams to provide counseling and support to affected students and families. He also stated he would visit the shooting site later that day.
