Bangkok: Central Investigation Police closed in on an illegal arms trafficking network in the capital and other provinces, seizing over 30,000 rounds of ammunition and arresting 12 suspects.
According to Thai News Agency, the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) led by the Crime Suppression Division (CSD) under Pol. Maj. Gen. Witthaya Sriprasertphap, Commander of the CSD, conducted a search operation in targeted areas in Bangkok and several provinces. This operation, named 'Bullet Express: End the Game, Express Bullets', resulted in the arrest of 12 individuals and the seizure of a significant cache of firearms and ammunition.
Following the earlier operation 'This Land Has a Name' on 21 March 2025, the Royal Thai Police intensified efforts to dismantle influential groups, mafia gangs, and serious crime networks, with a focus on gun dealers and hired gunmen. During that operation, the Crime Suppression Division searched 32 locations, arrested 16 suspects, and confiscated 23 firearms along with 564 rounds of ammunition. The investigation expanded to target online trading networks, leading to the discovery of suspects involved in the illegal sale of firearms and ammunition online. On 5 June 2025, 22 additional locations in Bangkok and other provinces were searched, resulting in the arrest of 12 suspects and the seizure of numerous firearms and 31,538 rounds of ammunition.
The investigation identified Mr. Ritchai as the gang leader, who exploited legal loopholes from his multiple gun licenses to collect and resell ammunition online. His operations involved using private transport services to avoid detection, selling goods at a premium to make significant profits. Mr. Ritchai confessed and assisted authorities in seizing more firearms and ammunition.
The suspects face charges of jointly possessing or selling firearms and ammunition for trade without permission, and are currently under investigation. Pol. Col. Boonlue Phdungthin, deputy commander of the Crime Suppression Division, emphasized the traceability of ammunition produced in Thailand, which aids ongoing investigations. Recent months have seen frequent shootings, with young individuals using firearms for violent crimes, contributing to a cycle of serious crime that authorities are determined to suppress. Initial investigations reveal some suspects have prior involvement in firearms cases, and further in-depth investigations are underway.