PM Vows to Use Law to Handle Chinese ID Registration Issue, Says No New Parliament Session Needed
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said existing laws are sufficient to address ID fraud involving Chinese nationals, rejecting calls for new parliamentary legislation and pledging stricter enforcement of registration procedures.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul addressed allegations that security authorities and the Ministry of Interior have been lax in issuing ID cards to Chinese nationals, leading to document fraud cases. Speaking at Government House on May 11, 2569, the PM stated that ID registration and nationality transfer procedures have been tightened since these issues emerged, though he declined to name specific cases out of respect for personal rights. He confirmed no improper nationality grants have been made.
When asked if new parliamentary legislation was necessary, the PM emphasized existing regulations are adequate, stating authorities simply need to prevent individuals with legal issues or criminal records from entering the system. He dismissed concerns that problematic cases could slip through, noting that government review and vetting processes prevent evasion, and those responsible for failures—such as an official in Chiang Mai involved in selling ID cards—face prosecution and dismissal.
Regarding the arrest of a Chinese national possessing numerous firearms, the PM noted the case began Saturday, May 9, with ongoing investigation expansion. He stressed that under Interior Ministry orders issued 2-3 years ago, firearm possession is prohibited with no exceptions, particularly for foreigners. The PM instructed police to expand the investigation to dismantle associated networks and ensure no security threats remain to the country or Thai citizens.