Arson unlikely in big blaze that gutted Khlong Thom Centre: PM

PRIME Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said while inspecting Khlong Thom Centre which was gutted in a fierce blaze that started at approximately 8.45 p.m. last night and only brought under control at around 5 a.m. this morning (Aug. 29) that it is unlikely to have been arson, Naewna newspaper said.

This blaze does not appear to have been the work of arsonists dissatisfied with forced eviction, Anutin, who was accompanied by Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, added during the visit at 10 a.m.

Police were ordered to tighten security and prevent opportunistic looting.

The blaze, which injured 11 people one critically, started on the first floor of the building on Worachak road and quickly spread due to the large quantity of electronic and audio equipment stored there.

The building suffered extensive damage, with approximately 90% of its structure and awnings collapsing. Over 20 parked cars were also damaged.

Firefighters from Suan Mali fire station quickly arrived after the blaze broke out and started spraying water to extinguish it. Teams from Phaya Thai, Banthat Thong, Bang Rak, Phu Khao Thong, Sam Sen, Phahonyothin, Bang Pho, and Sutthisan fire stations followed.

By 9.12 p.m. the fire engulfed the entire structure and at 9.35 p.m. the building started collapsing inside. Bangkok Governor Chadchart arrived at the scene at 10 p.m.

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This and Front Page: Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul accompanied by Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt visiting the gutted Klong Thom Centre this morning, Aug. 29, and the complex engulfed by fire last night. All photos – Naewna