Bangkok: Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilapraphan has proposed a comprehensive overhaul of Thailand's gun control system, focusing on utilizing technology to address existing loopholes in gun licensing. According to Thai News Agency, Pakorn revealed that the Ministry of Interior is facilitating a program that allows citizens to return illegal firearms without facing penalties, while simultaneously implementing stricter controls on gun shops and conducting mental health checks on gun owners.
In a recent interview, Pakorn discussed preliminary discussions with the Ministry of Interior and coordination efforts with the Secretary-General of the Council of State. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the Ministry of Interior and the government, as instructed by the Prime Minister, to implement stringent firearms control measures. These measures will cover aspects such as import, sale, possession, and licensing of firearms, and aim to prevent the leakage of ammunition and inspect locations where firearms are utilized.
Pakorn highlighted the limitations of the current manual licensing systems, which impede verification processes and clear identification of firearm quantities or origins. To address these issues, the government is planning to introduce technology to streamline the approval process, making it more efficient and easier to regulate. He outlined a three-part approach: requiring gun retailers to participate in oversight and conduct background and mental health checks, imposing stricter oversight of officials to prevent system leaks, and encouraging the public to remain calm and avoid emotional reactions to firearm-related issues.
The Ministry of Interior has also proposed guidelines that enable citizens to surrender unlicensed firearms to the authorities without penalty, aiming to reduce the number of illegal firearms in society.
Pakorn referenced measures taken in other countries, such as Australia's response to a mass shooting earlier this year, where the federal government enacted laws to control and buy back guns from licensed owners. However, he noted that some states in Australia still debate these laws due to discrepancies in purchase and buyback prices. He stressed that the gun problem is not unique to Thailand but emphasized the importance of gun users being mindful and aware of their actions.
Addressing concerns about whether gun owners will be unable to pawn their firearms, Pakorn clarified that, legally, guns cannot be pawned, as licenses are only issued to permit holders. He encouraged individuals to return illegal firearms to the state or prove their innocence to authorities, highlighting the importance of compliance with existing laws.
When questioned about foreign gun laws, Pakorn noted the variability of gun policies across countries. He cited the United States, where gun freedom is constitutionally guaranteed, and Australia, known for its strict gun control measures, as examples. He emphasized that while some individuals may own multiple firearms for personal interest, it is typically those with illegal firearms who pose a threat.
Mr. Narucha Kosanasila, Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration, mentioned that while stricter measures to control firearms are underway, the final count of checkpoints and firearm seizures is still pending completion and verification by relevant agencies.