Thailand, February 13th, 2025 – Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul signed an order temporarily banning the issuance of gun carry permits for one year, starting February 14th, 2025.
The order, announced by Deputy Government Spokesperson Traisulee Traisoranakul, was published in the Royal Gazette on February 13th, making it legally binding the following day.
This suspension of Por 12 licenses is in response to the alarming increase in gun-related incidents, including unauthorized carrying of firearms in cities, villages, and public areas without valid reasons.
Officials cited concerns over frequent displays of weapons in public and on social media, which have caused widespread fear and anxiety among citizens.
The government highlighted that many violent crimes have stemmed from unnecessary possession of firearms, endangering innocent lives and disrupting social order. The one-year ban aims to enhance public safety by reducing the risk of violence and preventing firearm-related crimes across the country.
Critics noted online that a ban on legal carrying is unlikely to affect the fact that the vast majority of gun crime in Thailand is from illegal use.
This article originally appeared on our sister website The Pattaya News.
