Thailand's Largest Gun Trafficking Scandal Uncovered in Phitsanulok
An audit in Phitsanulok uncovered 2,255 firearms missing from Thailand's licensing system, with investigators suspecting document forgery and unauthorized official signatures were used to illegally obtain weapons between 2020 and 2026.
On August 22, senior officials from the Department of Interior held a press conference at Phitsanulok Provincial Hall to announce the launch of "Clean Out Illegal Guns from Two Kwae" operation. An audit of gun licensing procedures in Muang Phitsanulok district uncovered 2,255 firearms missing from the system—the highest number in Thailand. The irregularities occurred between 2020 and 2026, when individuals received personal firearm purchase permits (Category 3) but these were never followed up with actual gun possession licenses (Category 4). Investigators suspect document forgery and unauthorized use of officials' signatures to illegally obtain weapons. The special task force conducted raids at three locations including a firearms shop near Pra Tuo Gate and residences of suspects in Pak Tok and Ngiao Ngam subdistricts. Investigators found that the names of over 300 civilians and community leaders were fraudulently used in permit applications, with many having no knowledge of or intention to buy weapons. Evidence of unauthorized document copying and signature use was also discovered, and authorities are expanding the investigation to all individuals involved.
