Thailand has temporarily stopped issuing new gun-purchase and ownership permits after a 14-year-old opened fire at a school outside Bangkok, killing eight people and himself. Authorities say the teenager may have learned to use firearms via violent content on social media. The government plans tougher gun laws, stricter ammunition controls and measures to recover an estimated four million unlicensed guns while lawmakers draft permanent changes.
Thailand Halts New Gun Permits After School Mass Shooting; Government Vows Tougher Controls
Mourners pray for the 12-year-old who died after being shot at the school outside Bangkok [AFP via Getty Images]
Thailand's government has ordered an immediate halt to issuing new gun-purchase and ownership permits following a deadly school shooting in which a 14-year-old killed eight people and then himself.
What Happened
Authorities say the attack took place last Friday at Debsirin Nonthaburi School, on the outskirts of Bangkok. The teenager first shot his grandparents with a handgun reportedly owned by his grandfather, then opened fire on teachers and students. Victims included both grandparents, five school staff members and a 12-year-old pupil.
Officials paid their respects to the victims on Tuesday at a Nonthaburi temple [AFP]
Investigation Findings
Police investigators found evidence that the boy consumed violent content and learned about firearms online, possibly teaching himself how to handle a gun via social media. Officials say his exposure to disturbing material, combined with anxiety about school and family problems, may have contributed to his actions. The probe into the shooting and its motives is ongoing.
Government Response and Policy Changes
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced a temporary suspension of all new permits to purchase or own firearms while lawmakers draft tougher gun-control legislation with harsher penalties. Existing purchase permits will not be renewed for the time being; the government has not yet clarified how current long-term ownership permits will be treated.
- Carry Permits: Permits to carry firearms in public were suspended in late 2023; licensed owners must keep weapons at home or in shooting-range storage.
- Unlicensed Guns: Officials are considering measures to encourage surrender of an estimated four million unlicensed firearms held in the country.
- Ammunition & Screening: The prime minister has indicated plans for stricter ammunition controls, and the education minister has proposed security screening at school entrances to prevent students bringing weapons on campus.
- Mental Health: Advocates are urging mandatory mental-health assessments as part of the licensing process and periodic re-evaluations of existing permits.
“These temporary measures will remain in place while Parliament works to pass stronger controls and significantly tougher penalties,” the prime minister said.
Officials and community representatives paid respects to the victims at a temple in Nonthaburi. The government says the temporary restrictions will stay active as it develops comprehensive legislative changes; investigators continue to gather evidence about the shooter’s motives and online activity.
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