Problems, Obstacles and Guidelines for Amending the Firearms Act of Thailand

Abstract

This article aims to study the problems and approaches to amend the Thai Firearms Act, with a documentary research method. The study found that 1) problems and obstacles to gun control, controlling the possession and use of firearms according to the current law is inappropriate, 2) problems and obstacles to the law on obtaining and using firearms permits, requiring the license to be valid all the time when the licensee owns a firearm is inappropriate, 3) problems and obstacles in the absence of a law requiring the storage of firearm details, lack of information to
prove firearms and ammunition used in the commission of crimes, and 4) problems and obstacles to carrying firearms, firearms are carried in public places without permission. As for the solution to the problem according to the intent of the Firearms Act of 1947, it was found that 1) approaches to solving problems and obstacles to gun control, firearms should be classified as dangerous substances by studying foreign gun control laws, 2) guidelines for resolving problems and obstacles in the law regarding permission to possess and use firearms, a new announcement should be issued on the appointment of registrars, officials, and officers under the Firearms Act,
3) approaches to solving problems and obstacles in lack of law of requiring the storage of details of firearms, the law should be amended to include the storage of bulletproof identity, and 4) guidelines for resolving problems and obstacles in carrying firearms, new firearms carriers must obtain a firearm purchase permit, a mental health medical certificate, and a conduct certificate.