Bangkok: Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilapraphan has announced a proposal from the Ministry of Interior to allow the return of illegal firearms without penalizing owners, as part of a broader initiative to tighten firearm regulations in the country. Pakorn emphasized the critical role of gun shops in controlling firearm distribution and urged the public to exercise restraint.
According to Thai News Agency, Pakorn revealed that the proposal was discussed during an informal meeting with the Secretary-General of the Council of State. The meeting aimed to align the Ministry of Interior's efforts with the government's directive to review and revise existing firearm laws to address current challenges. Pakorn stressed the need for a collaborative approach between the Ministry of Interior and the government to effectively manage firearm control.
Pakorn explained that comprehensive monitoring is necessary, covering the entire lifecycle of firearms from ordering and selling to possession and usage. He highlighted the importance of regulating ammunition and implementing rigorous inspections in areas where firearms are used to prevent unauthorized leaks. A complete overhaul of the permitting system is also planned, transitioning from manual methods to a technology-driven approach to enhance tracking and control.
When questioned about the country's current arsenal of 10 million guns, Pakorn assured that no further increases would be approved. He outlined a three-pronged approach for the review: holding gun shops accountable for sales, incorporating mental health evaluations before purchases, and improving oversight of officials. Pakorn acknowledged past issues with firearms leaking into the market and emphasized the need for public restraint to mitigate risks.
The proposal includes allowing gun owners without a license to return firearms without facing legal consequences. Pakorn referenced international examples, such as Australia's buyback program, to illustrate varying approaches to gun control. He noted that while such measures are debated, they aim to encourage responsible gun ownership.
Pakorn addressed illegal practices like pawning firearms, clarifying that guns should only be held by licensed individuals and suggesting that illegal firearms should be surrendered to authorities to demonstrate compliance with the law. He cited historical precedents, such as the influx of weapons during the Vietnam and Cambodian conflicts, to underscore the ongoing challenge of illegal firearms in Thailand.
Lastly, Pakorn advocated for studying international gun laws to inform domestic policy improvements. He contrasted the constitutional freedoms in countries like the United States with stricter controls in nations like Australia, highlighting the importance of balancing individual rights with public safety.