Fighting crime in Phuket: Drugs and weapons in focus!

Fighting crime in Phuket: Drugs and weapons in focus!

Alarm bells are ringing in Phuket, Thailand during the annual vegetarian festival. Under the leadership of Police Commissioner P.T. Khatchai Chukaew, an operation to combat crime and violence was carried out, which revealed several explosive results. Five suspects were arrested, with the arrests primarily focused on cases of illegal weapons possession. Reported today that the confiscated weapons also included home-made examples, either in the shape of a hook or a ballpoint pen.

The arrests include an 18-year-old man who was caught with a homemade ballpoint pen gun and two .38 caliber cartridges. In addition, two teenagers aged 15 and 17 were caught with a hook-shaped weapon and two .45 caliber cartridges (including one explosive). You face serious legal consequences for illegal possession of weapons and carrying weapons in public. In another case, police arrested a third group of teenagers for possessing another homemade hook-shaped weapon.

Background and worrying trends

The events in Phuket shine a bright light on the issue of gun ownership in Thailand, where it is estimated that over 10.34 million guns are in civilian hands, a ratio of one gun for every seven people. Loud ThailandTip Recently, a tragic incident occurred in Bangkok when a 14-year-old boy opened fire at the Siam Paragon shopping center, killing two people and injuring five others. This incident came on a sensitive date, the first anniversary of a shooting spree in Nong Bua Lamphu that left 36 people dead, including many children.

In a country that ranks third in the world in the possession of civilian weapons, the handling of weapons is a sensitive issue. Krisanaphong Poothakool, an expert in criminology, points out the inadequate measures taken so far to combat gun violence. Gun control laws exist, but implementation often leaves much to be desired. The high level of gun ownership is particularly evident in the southern provinces, which are characterized by insurgency and rebellion. Policies focused on gun ownership and drug use do not yet appear to be producing the desired results.

Prevention measures and education

As part of the police operation and to prevent further crimes, profiles were created for 26 young people at risk. Her parents were invited to inform her about legal provisions based on the Child Protection Act 2003. At a time when young people's willingness to use violence is increasing, such education is proving to be essential in order to create perspectives and prevent possible crimes.

Overall, the events that have happened are an urgent call for action. The citizen lives in an environment that holds both joy and sorrow - the annual vegetarian festival is intended to be a celebration of peace and harmony. But the reality is often different and the legislature is called upon to ensure the safety of citizens.