DOPA orders gun checks and school security nationwide

Thailand's Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA) has ordered authorities in every province to intensify controls on firearms, expand checkpoints and patrols, and increase security at schools and other key sites.

The measures were announced by DOPA director-general Narucha Kosacivilize, following the shooting at Debsirin Nonthaburi School in Bang Kruai district, Nonthaburi. The incident involved a student and a firearm, and resulted in deaths and injuries.

Narucha said the department's aim was to maintain public order, cut crime and prevent further violence or copycat incidents elsewhere in Thailand.

Nationwide firearm controls

Provincial authorities have been told to carry out stricter inspections of firearm possession and carrying, with what DOPA described as firm and decisive enforcement.

Firearm registrars must also tell licensed gun owners to store their weapons and ammunition securely, ensuring that others cannot access or use them in a way that could endanger people or property.

District chiefs have been instructed to coordinate administrative officials, including assistant district chiefs, subdistrict heads, village heads, assistant village heads, subdistrict inspectors, Volunteer Defence Corps members and village security teams.

They must increase checkpoints, interception points and patrols at public places, important locations, risk areas, entertainment venues and similar establishments, while strictly preventing people from carrying firearms.

Schools, malls and religious sites

Security is to be strengthened at schools and other educational institutions, religious sites, shopping centres and other important locations. Authorities must also arrange emergency-response drills and guidance so that officials and the public know how to react quickly and correctly in an emergency.

District chiefs have additionally been told to use local administrative mechanisms to monitor people whose behaviour or tendencies may suggest a risk of violence. Parents should be encouraged to supervise children and young people closely.

Authorities must speed up investigations, work with relevant agencies and provide relief, assistance and psychological support to those affected. Victims should receive legal entitlements and other assistance as fully and quickly as possible.

Narucha said DOPA would work with all sectors to prevent violence and improve public safety. Administrative authorities at every level have been instructed to act strictly, decisively and continuously to reinforce public confidence.

Picture courtesy of The Nation

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9 August 2026