On December 17, 2024, Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul commented on Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s initiative to crack down on influential figures, stating that the Ministry of Interior has consistently addressed this issue. Anutin referred to a recent incident in Prachinburi involving a private altercation, emphasizing that individuals must face consequences for their actions, but widespread lawlessness would not be tolerated.
When asked whether the Ministry’s list of influential figures includes prominent families in Prachinburi, Anutin clarified that influence can take many forms. Influence that earns public respect is acceptable, but any influence causing harm or distress to citizens will be targeted.
Anutin stressed the Ministry's focus on eliminating harmful influence while distinguishing it from personal disputes. He also raised concerns about the availability of firearms, noting that ordinary citizens should not possess such weapons. Law enforcement and officials, he assured, can differentiate between positive and harmful uses of influence.