Prime Minister Screened at Gun and Drug Checkpoint in Buriram
Thai authorities launched strict gun and drug checkpoints across Buriram Province on August 16, with Prime Minister Anutin submitting to the same screening as the public during his visit to the area.
On August 16, 2569, administrative and police officials jointly set up strict checkpoints to inspect firearms and narcotics in Ban Dan Subdistrict, Ban Dan District, Buriram Province, and other areas across the province. The operation follows the policy of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Interior Minister, focused on tightening controls and preventing the spread of firearms in society.
While officials were conducting inspections, Prime Minister Anutin, who was visiting the area on official business, was also checked like the general public. When the Prime Minister asked officers "Did you find anything?", they replied "No sir." When he asked further about the checkpoint area, officers responded "Only drugs, sir."
The heightened firearms control measures come in response to a series of violent incidents that have shaken Thai society, including a 14-year-old youth committing an act of violence at school and a politician's son using a gun to assault a classmate. The measures also address the shooting of Police Colonel Thongchai Yenprasert, Nonthaburi Provincial Administrative Organization chairman, by Chaloem Rieoyrang, a former prominent politician.
To address the root cause and prevent illegal circulation of firearms that could lead to further violence, the Prime Minister has issued a strict order to suspend all issuance of firearm purchase licenses and firearm possession licenses until the Cabinet decides otherwise. He has also ordered the Department of Local Administration to cease awarding firearms to village headmen and local leaders. These measures aim to ensure the safety of lives and property of the public.
