Thailand vows stricter gun enforcement after school shooting kills eight

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has pledged stricter enforcement of the country's gun laws following a deadly school shooting in Nonthaburi province on Friday. The attack, which left eight people dead and more than 30 injured, has prompted urgent calls for tighter firearm controls.

Police were alerted around 10:00 local time after the gunman opened fire at Debsirin Nonthaburi School in the Bang Kruai district. Witnesses described the attacker, a 14-year-old student, wearing a purple tracksuit and firing dozens of shots inside the school premises. One student, Kittiphat Chulerd, recounted barricading a door with friends after being unable to lock it, waiting for authorities to issue instructions.

Investigators believe the teenager killed his grandparents at their home before carrying out the attack. A handgun recovered at the scene is thought to have belonged to the grandfather, and a large quantity of ammunition was found in the suspect's bag. Thai media reports indicate the suspect had researched an American school shooting case on his computer.

Speaking at the scene, Anutin suggested the motive may have been excessive academic pressure, noting the suspect's grandparents were reportedly strict about his studies. A friend of the gunman corroborated that he had been under significant stress and had prepared thoroughly, even posting photos of the weapon on social media beforehand.

Anutin stressed that such incidents must not recur, announcing that the government will promote stricter gun control measures and enhance supervision of firearm ownership. "The law is quite clear. Citizens are not in the position that requires them to possess guns and carry arms in public," he said, adding that illegal carriers will be arrested.

The school has been evacuated and remains empty. The government has deployed mental health crisis teams to support those affected. Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat expressed concern for the injured, particularly a girl shot in the head who remains in severe condition, with doctors working to save her.