DOPA orders nationwide crackdown on firearms and tighter security

Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA) has ordered provincial authorities nationwide to tighten firearm controls, increase checkpoints and patrols, and strengthen security at schools and other key locations following the shooting at Debsirin Nonthaburi School.

Narucha Kosacivilize, director-general of DOPA, announced the measures on Friday (August 7), saying the department wanted to maintain public order, reduce crime and prevent further violent incidents or copycat cases in other areas. 

The directive followed an incident at the school in Bang Kruai district, Nonthaburi, involving a student and a firearm, which resulted in deaths and injuries.

Six measures ordered nationwide

To maintain public order and public safety, reduce crime and prevent violent incidents, the Department of Provincial Administration has instructed every province to implement the following measures:

1. Tighten controls on firearm possession and carrying

Strengthen inspections and controls on the possession and carrying of firearms in each area, with strict and decisive enforcement.

2. Ensure licensed firearms and ammunition are stored securely

Firearm registrars must instruct licence holders to keep firearms and ammunition in their possession securely stored and prevent other people from accessing or using them in ways that could endanger lives or property.

3. Step up proactive operations against firearms and illegal drugs

District chiefs must coordinate administrative personnel, including assistant district chiefs, subdistrict heads, village heads, assistant village heads, subdistrict inspectors, members of the Volunteer Defence Corps and village security teams. They must increase checkpoints, interception points and patrols in public areas, key locations, risk areas, entertainment venues and establishments operating in a similar manner, and strictly prevent people from carrying firearms.

4. Strengthen security at key locations, especially schools and shopping centres

Security measures must be tightened at schools, educational institutions, religious sites, shopping centres and other important locations. Emergency-response drills and guidance on how to act during emergencies must also be arranged so that officials and members of the public can respond correctly and promptly.

5. Monitor high-risk individuals and behaviour to prevent repeat or copycat incidents

District chiefs must use local administrative mechanisms to monitor people whose behaviour or tendencies may indicate a risk of violence, with the aim of preventing repeat or copycat incidents. Parents should also be encouraged to closely supervise children and young people.

6. Accelerate comprehensive assistance and support for those affected

Authorities must expedite investigations and coordinate with relevant agencies while providing assistance, relief and psychological support to those affected. They should also ensure that victims receive all legal entitlements and assistance as fully and quickly as possible.

The director-general of the Department of Provincial Administration reiterated that the department would work with all sectors to prevent violence and improve public safety. Administrative authorities at every level have been instructed to carry out their duties strictly, decisively and continuously to strengthen public confidence and reassurance nationwide.