An 80-year-old former Tourist Police officer was arrested after allegedly entering the home of a close female friend in Nong Prue while heavily drunk and carrying a loaded handgun, police said.
The man, identified as former Police Senior Sergeant Major Somchai, was carrying a firearm with 11 rounds of ammunition. Officers said the weapon had been chambered and was ready for use.
Police were called to Soi Khao Talo 10 in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri, on 24 September after reports that an intoxicated man with a gun had entered a resident's home.
Police seize weapon without injuries
Pol Col Nathaphon Phongsuksakun, superintendent of Nong Prue Police Station, ordered patrol officers to attend the scene.
Residents in the surrounding area were reportedly alarmed when officers found Somchai, a former Tourist Police officer, in a severely intoxicated state and speaking incoherently. He had the firearm at his side.
Picture courtesy of Daily News
Police moved in and subdued him, seizing the weapon without anyone being injured.
A subsequent search found an official police identification card and a permit allowing the holder to carry a firearm while conducting official police duties and arrest investigations, both in and out of uniform. The permit had been issued by the Tourist Police Bureau but had expired in April 2009.
Neighbours feared violence
Police said Somchai had earlier been drinking with friends in Soi Khao Talo before going to the home of a close female friend.
Neighbours became concerned that the situation could turn violent and contacted police. During the arrest, Somchai reportedly demanded the return of his weapon, shouting: "Give me back my gun."
Checks confirmed that he had genuinely served with the Tourist Police. He has been charged with carrying a firearm in public without reasonable cause.
Authorities are still checking whether the gun is legally registered.
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25 September 2026
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