Thai Tourist Police Crack Down on Illegal Firearms Trade in Pattaya and Ratchaburi
PATTAYA, Thailand – The Tourist Police Command, led by Police Lieutenant General Saksira Phuek-am, has launched a targeted operation against illegal firearms sales, arresting two suspects in Pattaya and Ratchaburi . The sting operations were part of a nationwide crackdown on the spread of illegal weapons linked to violent crimes.
Pattaya Sting Operation
In Pattaya, investigators tracked a 29-year-old suspect, identified only as Krisada (alias “Black”), who was advertising blank-firing guns (.380 caliber) and ammunition on Facebook.
Tourist Police set up an undercover purchase, arranging to meet him at a convenience store in Banglamung district. Krisada arrived on a motorcycle but initially denied possession of firearms. However, during questioning—backed by video evidence of the deal—he confessed.
A search of his home uncovered the advertised firearms and ammunition. Authorities said Krisada admitted to trying to trick buyers with substitute items. He now faces charges of attempting to sell firearms without a license, illegal possession of firearms, and was transferred to Nongprue Police Station for prosecution.
Ratchaburi Arrest and Raid
In a separate but coordinated operation, Tourist Police targeted another suspect in Ratchaburi. Officers discovered a Facebook post offering a Thai-made blank-firing gun (.380 caliber) and a Sig Sauer P228 (9mm) for sale.
Police arranged a purchase worth 32,000 baht, with delivery set via courier at a convenience store in Ban Pong district. The suspect, identified as Taweep (alias “Yong”), 29, was arrested when he arrived to ship the parcel. Inside, officers discovered firearms and ammunition.
Further questioning led police to an abandoned animal shelter, where Taweep had hidden additional weapons. The raid turned up more firearms and ammunition. He faces multiple charges, including attempting to sell firearms without a permit, illegal possession, and carrying firearms in public without authorization. He was handed over to Ban Pong Police Station for legal action.
Nationwide Crackdown
Police Lieutenant General Saksira Phuek-am emphasized that these arrests reflect the Tourist Police Command’s commitment to enforcing Royal Thai Police policies against the illegal weapons trade. Authorities believe such weapons are often linked to violent crimes across Thailand.
“These operations send a strong message,” Saksira said. “The sale and possession of illegal firearms will not be tolerated, and those involved will be brought to justice.”
The crackdown highlights the increasing use of social media platforms like Facebook in illegal gun sales and the determination of Thai law enforcement to track and dismantle these operations.
