The suspect, whose name was withheld as he is a minor, was apprehended in the Saphan Ruam area by an investigative team led by Police Lt Col Wittaya Kunnoi, Inspector of the Crime Suppression Division at Wichit Police Station.
He was charged with illegal possession of a firearm and carrying a weapon in a public place without a valid reason. Police said a background check was conducted to prevent further incidents.
The arrest came as part of a wider operation by Wichit Police to curb youth-related crime and maintain public safety during the festival period.
In a related action, a patrol team led by Police Lt Col Sawat Phon-on, also of the Crime Suppression Division, seized five motorcycles linked to groups of youths causing disturbances in the area. Police confirmed that all charges had been filed, and the parents of the minors involved would face prosecution under the Child Protection Act.
Wichit Police urged young people to avoid illegal behaviour and refrain from actions that cause harm or public disorder. Officers also called on parents to closely monitor their children, noting that youths at a vulnerable age are more easily influenced to commit offences.
“Stop thinking about ‘leveling up’ through wrongdoing ‒ it will only increase your punishment under the law,” police warned, adding that the community must work together to prevent gang activity and promote a safer society.