Man arrested after firearms complaints near Chalong Reservoir

A man was arrested and three firearms seized after residents complained that guns were being carried and fired near Chalong Reservoir and the new road linking Chalong with Patong, Phuket provincial officials said on 4 September 2026.

A special operations unit of the Phuket Provincial Administration investigated the complaints with the Mueang Phuket District Office. The operation was led by Provincial Defence Officer Akkra Suwattikul, supported by Assistant Provincial Defence Officers Jiradech Burarak and Panjapong Boonchan and members of the provincial Volunteer Defense Corps.

Officials seized a homemade handgun designed to fire 12-gauge cartridges, a homemade 12-gauge shotgun, a registered .22-calibre rifle and 24 rounds of ammunition.

Authorities said the suspect faces initial charges of possessing firearms and ammunition without a permit, illegal use of a Category 1 narcotic — methamphetamine — and driving under the influence of methamphetamine.

Officials said they would verify the .22-calibre rifle’s registration documents and ownership conditions, as well as the circumstances in which it was carried and used, before deciding whether further or different charges are warranted. The suspect and seized items were handed to investigators at Chalong Police Station.