Bangkok: The government plans to submit the amended gun control law draft to the Cabinet in mid-September, as underscored by Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilapraphan. Pakorn highlighted that mere amnesty for firearms is insufficient, necessitating a comprehensive overhaul of the entire system, which includes controlling dealers, shooting ranges, and improving gun registration processes. The proposed bill aims to allow the return of firearms to the state, intending to close loopholes in the illegal gun trade. However, the Ministry of Interior has expressed concerns over the high costs associated with buying back firearms.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilapraphan discussed the progress in amending the Firearms Act, emphasizing that resolving the issue requires more than just legislative amendments. He pointed out that Thailand's borders with neighboring countries contribute to the influx of weapons due to internal instability in these regions. The current firearms law, established in 1947, covers legally imported firearms but contains loopholes that need reform. Pakorn emphasized the necessity of creating a more integrated system to manage legally imported weapons. He noted that previous efforts to develop a centralized firearms registration system have been incomplete, lacking interconnectedness and effective tracking. Additionally, he highlighted that the law does not explicitly require gun shops to share responsibility for the safekeeping of firearms.
Pakorn stated that most registered firearms do not pose problems, but issues arise with illegally imported firearms. Even with a purchase permit, failure to register a firearm renders it illegal. Illegal firearms fall into three categories: smuggled firearms, legally purchased but unregistered firearms, and Thai-made firearms. Pakorn also emphasized the need for stricter control over shooting ranges, which are currently under the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT). The proposal from the Ministry of Interior, discussed with the Council of State, aims to overhaul the registration and licensing system, regulate gun use, and close loopholes. A potential measure, akin to an amnesty, would allow individuals to surrender uncertain legal firearms without penalty. This measure has had mixed results previously, due to a lack of system overhaul. Stricter law enforcement is also crucial, especially in inspecting smuggled firearms and ammunition.
Pakorn further stated that the new law will strictly control gun dealers, the gun licensing system, and shooting ranges. The buyback scheme is under discussion with the Ministry of Interior and the Council of State, considering its significant budget requirement. The Ministry of Interior suggested that a reciprocal return of firearms might be more feasible than an expensive buyback scheme. Measures are already in place to prevent the leakage of military and police firearms used in official duties, although these are not guaranteed to be fully effective.
The Deputy Prime Minister outlined that after gathering public opinions through the central legal system until September 10th, a draft law will be prepared. This draft will undergo another public consultation phase before being presented to the Cabinet meeting under Section 19 of the Act on Principles for Drafting Laws. The draft law is expected to be submitted to the Cabinet meeting in mid-September.