Report Bangkok Swat Team Busts Gun-Modifying Duo Selling Illegally Online

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A Swat team in Bangkok has successfully apprehended two suspects accused of illegally modifying and selling firearms online, following a decisive raid on a home in the Suan Luang district. The men, Natthakiat (known as New, age 29) and Suppasit (known as Peach, age 31), were taken into custody on Thursday, as confirmed by the Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA). Their full surnames remain undisclosed.

 

This operation was initiated after local community members lodged complaints about the suspects' online activity, specifically the posting of weapon and ammunition images for sale on Facebook. Director-General Chaiwat Chuntirapong of the department under the Interior Ministry highlighted that not only were these images causing alarm, but the suspects had also been seen carrying firearms in public, instilling fear among the residents.

 

Investigations revealed Natthakiat's checkered past; he had been released from prison in 2019 after serving a sentence related to drug offences. Post-release, he claimed to have turned to selling vintage clothes and accessories, though this also involved weapons trafficking via social media, according to Mr. Chaiwat.

 

The illegal arsenal included modified blank guns and ammunition, marketed at various price points from several thousands to tens of thousands of baht. The suspects admitted to engaging in the trade of purchasing, altering, and reselling these firearms over the past year. Their customer base predominantly comprised technical student gangs, known for their involvement in violent and potentially lethal altercations.

 

Both suspects now face initial charges of possessing and modifying weapons without the legal permits, a serious violation underscored by Mr. Chaiwat. This crackdown is part of a broader effort to curb the illegal trade and trafficking of firearms, especially given the rising concerns associated with such weapons falling into the hands of young gangs across the city.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-08