Phuket checkpoint search finds gun and 30 rounds under BMW seat
Officials detained a 29-year-old driver after finding a CZ firearm, magazines and 30 rounds of 9mm ammunition beneath the driver’s seat during a checkpoint in Koh Kaew.
Mueang Phuket district officials detained a 29-year-old driver after finding a CZ firearm, magazines and 30 rounds of 9mm ammunition beneath the driver’s seat of a BMW during a checkpoint in Koh Kaew on 10 August 2026.
Officials established the checkpoint at about 8.30pm as part of efforts to prevent violent crime, drug offences, firearms offences and other illegal activity. They stopped and searched the BMW after considering it suspicious.
The driver could not produce a licence to possess and use the firearm or a permit to carry it. Officials seized the weapon and ammunition and transferred him to Mueang Phuket Police Station for further investigation.
He was initially accused of carrying a firearm and ammunition in a public place without permission or reasonable cause, and of possessing another person’s legally registered firearm without permission.
The Phuket Info Centre said the case falls under Thailand’s Firearms, Ammunition, Explosives, Fireworks and Imitation Firearms Act of 1947. Section 7 requires permission to possess and use firearms or ammunition, with violations carrying one to 10 years in prison and a fine of B2,000 to B20,000. Section 8 bis regulates carrying firearms in towns, villages and public places, with violations carrying up to five years in prison, a fine of up to B10,000, or both.
The charges and penalties ultimately applicable to the driver will depend on the police investigation, including the firearm’s registration and licensing status.
