Buriram: The Prime Minister made a surprise visit to Buriram province, encountering a strict random checkpoint for firearms and drugs. During the visit, he emphasized the seriousness with which police and local authorities are implementing policies to enhance public safety. When asked about any findings, police were surprised to report discovering "only drugs."
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul used his holiday for personal official visits to inspect the work of officials in various provinces. On the same day, he visited Buriram province without prior notice of his schedule. At 11:00 AM, his vehicle stopped at a joint checkpoint in front of the Ban Dan Police Station in Ban Dan District, Buriram Province. This checkpoint was established as part of a government policy to search for firearms and narcotics at the district level. Police and administrative officials at the checkpoint requested permission to search the Prime Minister's vehicle, both the front and rear, just like any other citizen. This operation aligns with Anutin Charnvirakul's policy, focusing on cracking down on and preventing the spread of firearms in society.
After the search, the Prime Minister inquired, "Did you find anything?" The police responded with "No." He then asked again, "Do you mean the general checkpoints around here?" to which the officer replied, "We only found drugs."
This intensified gun control measure follows a series of violent incidents in Thai society, including a 14-year-old's school shooting, a prominent politician's son using a gun to assault a classmate, and a former politician in Nonthaburi province shooting a police officer. The aim is to address gun-related issues at their source and prevent firearms from falling into situations that could lead to further violence. Previously, the Prime Minister issued a decisive order suspending all gun purchase and possession permits until further notice. He also instructed relevant authorities to cease awarding firearms as rewards. These measures primarily aim to ensure the safety of people's lives and property.