PATTAYA, Thailand – At the Narcotics Suppression Bureau headquarters in Bangkok, May 12, Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul addressed the case of Chinese national Mr. Mingchen Sun, a suspect arrested in Huay Yai area, Na Jomtien near Pattaya, in connection with a large cache of military-grade weapons, explosives, and security-related equipment.
Anutin said the case remains under investigation, stressing that authorities must determine who may be involved based on evidence rather than assumptions. He noted that personal connections between individuals are normal, but anyone found to be involved in wrongdoing must face legal consequences.
When asked about possible links to transnational criminal groups, the Prime Minister said this is a matter for the Royal Thai Police and ongoing investigations. He confirmed that police are expanding the case to include the suspect’s wife and wider network.
Anutin reassured the public and tourists that Thailand remains safe and that daily life continues normally, with security agencies fully responsible for public safety.
He emphasized that the suspect should not be classified as a terrorist, but rather as someone involved in illegal weapons possession. Authorities, he said, have already taken him into custody and are working to trace the origin of the weapons and related networks.
Responding to questions about firearms regulations, the Prime Minister announced that Thailand will move to phase out firearm carry permits nationwide by September, stating that existing permits will effectively be considered expired. He warned that carrying firearms in public without authorization will be treated as a serious criminal offense.
Anutin also said the government supports tourism and investment policies but acknowledged that certain individuals exploit legal loopholes to commit crimes. He insisted that law enforcement will pursue all offenders without exception.
He further stated that Thailand will not tolerate illegal activities such as drug trafficking, scams, or transnational crimes, adding that police have the capability to track down offenders regardless of where crimes originate.
On immigration screening, he said all entrants have records that can be checked, and authorities have already strengthened screening systems, especially for individuals with problematic backgrounds.
