Bangkok: Police Lieutenant General Ruttapol Khemklang has emphasized the importance of adhering to the Prime Minister's policy, which prohibits officials from carrying firearms unless proper permission is obtained. This directive aligns with the current regulations that require Department of Special Investigation (DSI) officers to seek approval from the Director-General before possessing firearms.
According to Thai News Agency, Justice Minister Ruttapol has reinforced this policy by instructing DSI officers to ensure they have the necessary permissions in place. While some officers are allowed to carry firearms during their duties, they must follow a two-tiered approval system. The Minister himself possesses a firearm at home for property protection and holds a valid firearms license (P.4), but he refrains from carrying it in his official capacity.
Police Lieutenant General Rudupol Nawarat, who also serves as Minister of Justice, discussed the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul's measures prohibiting officials from carrying firearms. He clarified that the DSI has been instructed on the internal regulations, which permit firearms only with proper authorization while on duty.
When questioned about any additional instructions regarding the policy, Pol. Gen. Ruttapol affirmed that officers requiring firearms must obtain permission from the Director-General, both for official and personal use. He noted that since joining the force, he has not carried a gun in operational roles.
Regarding the Prime Minister's emphasis on the policy, Pol. Gen. Ruttapol mentioned that it was reiterated during a recent Cabinet meeting. The Prime Minister's entourage will undergo random checks to verify their identity, a measure that the Minister considers beneficial for maintaining proper security protocols. This operation is expected to coincide with the opening of Parliament.