Thailand has announced an immediate suspension of new gun permits following a deadly school shooting near Bangkok. The decision came after a 14-year-old boy allegedly killed eight people before taking his life. The victims included his grandparents, five school staff members and a 12-year-old girl.
The shooting happened last Friday at Debsirin Nonthaburi School, outside Bangkok. Police say the teenager first used a handgun belonging to his grandfather to shoot his grandparents. He then went to the school and opened fire.
Authorities believe the boy may have learned how to use guns through social media. Police also found evidence that he had been watching violent material online and was highly interested in firearms.
Investigators are looking at several possible factors behind the attack. These factors include issues at home, academic pressure, and anxiety. Thailand has a large number of privately owned firearms. Around 10.3 million guns. Authorities estimate that civilians possess approximately 10.3 million guns. Officials also estimate that about four million firearms are unlicensed.
Under the new measures, authorities will stop issuing permits to buy or own guns until further notice. Existing purchase permits will also expire. The government has not yet explained how the changes will affect current gun ownership permits.
Thailand already suspended public gun-carrying permits in 2023. Gun owners are currently expected to keep their weapons at home or use them at authorised shooting ranges.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said the temporary restrictions will remain while the government prepares tougher gun laws. The proposed rules could include stronger controls and much harsher penalties.
Officials are also considering tighter controls on ammunition. The government may encourage people with unlicensed firearms to surrender their weapons. Gun control campaigners have called for mental health checks before permits are approved. They also want gun licences to be reviewed regularly.
The education minister has suggested security checks at school entrances to prevent students from bringing weapons onto school grounds. The government says further measures will be introduced as it works on the new legislation.
