Thailand Justice Minister backs firearm restrictions for officials

Thailand's Minister of Justice, Pol. Lt. Gen. Rutthapol Naowarat, has expressed support for a new policy introduced by Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul that restricts officials from carrying firearms.

Regarding the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), Rutthapol clarified that while some officers may still carry weapons during duty, they must adhere to a strict two-tier authorization process, requiring specific permits and explicit permission from the Director-General. The Minister noted that even personal firearms held by officials must be registered and authorized.

Additionally, Rutthapol addressed the detention of former Nonthaburi MP Chalong Reawrang, who was involved in a shooting incident. He emphasized that Reawrang is being held at the Nonthaburi Provincial Prison according to standard regulations, asserting that the former politician receives no special treatment or privileges during his incarceration.