Engineer arrested for selling firearms and explosives online

Police arrested a young engineer for manufacturing and selling firearms online, uncovering a cache of weapons and explosives at his residence. The operation has been ongoing for two years, with the suspect producing firearms using various metal parts.

Police officers apprehended the engineer, Prasit, at a well-known logistics company in Banphot Phisai district, Nakhon Sawan province. He faces charges of illegal possession of explosives, unlicensed ammunition, and unauthorised firearms.

Following his arrest, officers searched his rented house in Tha Ngio subdistrict, where they discovered an extensive collection of weaponry.

The search yielded various metal forms used to manufacture firearms, gun barrels, 131 rounds of assorted ammunition, a drill press, metal-cutting equipment, and a half-pound stick of C4 explosive. Additionally, they found a standard M5 detonator and two booster charges. All items were seized as evidence.

Law enforcement had been investigating reports of an illegal firearm manufacturing operation in Banphot Phisai district. Their investigation revealed that Prasit had been using his rented house to produce weapons. Investigators devised a sting operation to purchase firearms from him, leading to his arrest and the subsequent search of his residence.

During questioning, Prasit disclosed that he holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, which equipped him with the skills to produce and assemble firearms. Initially, he repaired firearms for local farmers before expanding his operations.

“I started by fixing guns for farmers, then began manufacturing small .38 calibre revolvers with a four-round capacity, selling them online for 3,000 to 4,000 baht each. This has been my business for over two years.”

He further explained that most of his clients sent their firearms for repairs rather than ordering new ones. Regarding the C4 explosive, Prasit claimed he purchased it from someone in Sa Kaeo province, intending to resell it to Karen and Burmese groups for profit.

Despite his statements, police remain sceptical and plan to conduct further investigations to uncover the full extent of the operation. The discovery of such a significant amount of weaponry and explosives has raised concerns about the potential reach and impact of Prasit’s activities, reported KhaoSod.