A celebration marking the 134th anniversary of Kamnan and Village Headman Day in Surat Thani has drawn online criticism after five shotguns were offered as raffle prizes.
The event brought together local administrative officials from Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, with four of the guns going to the Koh Tao side and one to Koh Phangan, according to images and details published by the Facebook page Seua Thuean.
Anniversary gathering on Koh Phangan
The large-scale party was held on the open ground in front of the government centre and was jointly organised by the administrative authorities of Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.
A district chief presided over the event. Those attending included police officers at commander and superintendent level, local administrative officials, local politicians and women's and housewives' groups.
The gathering also featured a live concert by a well-known phuea chiwit, or "songs for life", artist.
However, it was the prize draw that became the focus of public debate. Five shotguns were reportedly included among the gifts offered to lucky winners.
Questions over gun transfers
Online commentators have questioned whether firearms are appropriate raffle prizes at a public celebration, particularly one involving government officials and local leaders.
They have also raised questions about whether the transfer and possession of the guns followed official procedures and legal requirements. There had been no formal explanation from the local administrative authorities.
Koh Phangan and Koh Tao are major destinations for foreign tourists, long-stay visitors and expatriate residents. The public reaction has centred on the suitability and legality of using guns as prizes.
Picture courtesy of Amarin
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13 August 2026
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