Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stressed strengthening implementation of the country's gun laws after the school shooting in Nonthaburi province on Friday.
Eight people were confirmed dead, including the gunman and his grandparents, and over 30 people were injured, with nine in critical condition, after a gunman opened fire at a school and home in Nonthaburi province earlier the day.
Local police were notified around 10:00 local time after the gunman opened fire at Debsirin Nonthaburi School in the Bang Kruai district.
A witness at the scene said the gunman wore a purple tracksuit and fired dozens of shots in the school.
"I called my friends into a room and we set up a barricade at the door because we could not lock it. We then waited for authorities to tell us what to do," said a student named Kittiphat Chulerd.
It was reported that the alleged attacker, identified as a 14-year-old student, had been living with his grandparents. Thai police discovered the bodies of his grandparents at their home, with investigators believing they were shot dead before the attack at the school.
Authorities said a handgun was recovered at the scene, and initial information suggested it belonged to the grandfather of the alleged shooter. A large quantity of ammunition was also found in the suspected shooter's bag.
According to Thai media reports, during the investigation of the motive for the school shooting case, Thai police found on the suspect shooter's computer that he had searched and studied an American school shooting case.
Anutin told the media at the scene that the reason for the attack may be excessive academic pressure since the alleged student shooter's grandparents were very strict with his studies.
A friend of the gunman also confirmed that he was under great pressure recently and had made thorough preparations before the shooting, and had even posted photos of the gun he used on social media.
Anutin also said such an incident must not be allowed to happen again, noting that the government will promote stricter gun control measures, and relevant departments must strengthen supervision of gun ownership situations.
He said no one is allowed to carry guns into public places unless performing official duties.
"The law is quite clear. Citizens are not in the position that requires them to possess guns and carry arms in public. From now on, checks will be made and if civilians are found to be carrying arms illegally, they will be arrested," said Anutin.
The school now stands empty after students were evacuated. The Thai government has deployed mental health crisis assessment and treatment teams to support those affected.
"I just came back from the hospital and see the parents of the students who are in the operation room. Two of them, we hope they will be in a good condition within days. But we are very worried about one of the girls that got shot in the head. She is in a very severe condition. So all the doctors insist and try their best to take care of her and her family whatever it takes, yes," said Pattana Promphat, Thai Minister of Public Health.
Thai PM stresses stricter gun control after school shooting
