Phuket officials inspect 4 Patong shooting ranges, 1 remains closed

Phuket officials inspected four shooting ranges in Patong at 1 p.m. on May 6 as Kathu District tightened oversight of firearm businesses for legal and safety compliance. District Chief Akkarapol Sutthirak Jitsupap led the checks with district officers, representatives from the Sports Authority of Thailand in Phuket, Patong Municipality and other agencies.

Three ranges cleared, one faces legal action

The inspection covered Patong Shooting Association, Patong Sport Shooting Club and the Chiwawong Shooting Sports Association’s Elephant Camp branch. Officials said all three presented valid registration documents issued by the provincial registrar.

Authorities also confirmed the three associations held firearm licenses matching their approved weapons. That verification formed part of the compliance review carried out during the visit.

Patong Phuket Shooting Association was not operating during the inspection. Officials said the facility is closed while legal proceedings continue.

District authorities said association leaders and staff must strictly follow all applicable laws and regulations. The order was issued to ensure shooting range operations are conducted responsibly under required safety and legal standards.

Source: https://thephuketexpress.com/2026/05/06/phuket-officials-tighten-oversight-of-shooting-ranges-in-patong/