Debsirin Nonthaburi School reopens under heavy security after deadly attack

Thailand’s Debsirin Nonthaburi School reopened for in-person classes amid heightened security after a 14-year-old killed seven people and himself in an August rampage, one of the country’s deadliest mass shootings in years. Police were deployed and bag checks conducted as students entered, with civil defence volunteers guarding the grounds and memorials displayed for the victims. Families expressed a mix of relief and ongoing worry about safety and the trauma felt by students returning to school, while mental health teams have been supporting staff and pupils. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced gun-control measures, including suspending new firearm permits and reviewing existing licenses, following the incident. The attack has intensified national debate over firearms possession in Thailand, which estimates around 10.3 million civilian firearms and has one of Asia’s highest gun-ownership rates. Reports describe the ongoing emotional and logistical challenges as the school works to balance safety with normalcy for students and families.