Unregistered firearm found during routine weight check on highway in central Thailand
Highway Police officers apprehended a 22-wheel lorry driver on Tuesday during a routine weight check operation on Phra Prathon-Ban Bo Road, Mueang Nakhon Pathom, central Thailand.
The driver, a 47 year old man known as Jirapat (surname withheld), was found in possession of an unregistered 9-millimetre firearm and four bullets. Jirapat was arrested, and charged with possession of firearms without permission in public areas.
Highway Police officers were carrying out a standard duty of inspecting truck weights to ensure they did not exceed legal limits. Amid their routine checks, a 22-wheel lorry driven by Jirapat caught their attention. The vehicle was moving at a high speed in the right lane, leading the officers to signal Jirapat to halt for an inspection.
Despite complying with the weight restrictions, Jirapat’s behaviour raised alarm bells. His suspicious demeanour and apparent panic prompted the officers to conduct a more thorough search of his lorry. The ensuing inspection led to the discovery of the unregistered firearm and ammunition.
Jirapat’s initial reaction to the discovery was one of confession. He claimed possession of the firearm, explaining that he kept it for self-defence purposes in case of any road altercations. His confession, however, did not spare him from legal repercussions.
Highway Police officers handed Jirapat over to the Muang Nakhon Pathom police for further investigation. The unregistered firearm was confiscated as evidence to be used in the ensuing legal process, reported Pattaya News.
He reportedly confessed to possessing the unregistered firearm as he claimed he kept it for self-defence in case of a road brawl.
In related news, Thalang police executed a successful operation against illicit activities. Two individuals were apprehended in the ongoing crackdown against drugs and firearms that has been plaguing the region.
A 44 year old local was arrested in the vicinity of an unregistered residential structure in Moo 2. Upon further investigation, the police discovered a stash of illegal substances hidden nearby. Read more about this story HERE.
