Bangkok: Pakorn Nilapraphan, Deputy Prime Minister, is advancing amendments to the Firearms Act to establish a 3-year license renewal cycle and enforce stricter controls on firearms transfers and pawning. According to Thai News Agency, Pakorn plans to collaborate with the Department of Provincial Administration and the Council of State to revamp the Firearms Act, drawing on international practices and integrating a comprehensive system to address current inadequacies.
Pakorn highlighted the necessity of updating the existing legislation, which has remained unchanged since 1947. In a recent interview at Sanam Luang, he emphasized the shift from an analog system, where paper licenses were manually approved by district officers, to a more sophisticated, accountable framework. The current system lacks adequate mechanisms for tracking transactions between gun shops and buyers, resulting in unsystematic management of firearms ownership.
Pakorn stressed the importance of implementing a robust system akin to international models, where the sale and regulation of firearms resemble the stringent procedures of financial institutions. He proposed the introduction of expiration dates for licenses, suggesting a 3-year term, and highlighted the need for tighter controls on firearm transfers, particularly regarding their use as loan collateral.
He also addressed the necessity for improved supervision over shooting ranges and the alignment of firearms with ammunition supply. Pakorn emphasized the discrepancy between the number of firearms and available ammunition, citing it as a prevalent issue necessitating stricter regulation.
In response to inquiries about the permit process, Pakorn indicated that gun ownership permits should mirror the structured approach of driver's licenses, ensuring accountability and adherence to legal standards. He highlighted the need to close loopholes in firearms ownership, such as the "transfer of ownership without actual transfer of possession," by implementing real-time verification systems to monitor ownership and ensure compliance with tax obligations.
Pakorn acknowledged the potential for issuing a ministerial regulation as a temporary measure while awaiting legislative amendments. He noted that discussions with relevant authorities would determine the most effective interim solutions.