The world was shocked by the news of Bangkok becoming the victim of 6 bombing cases which were reported to have occurred in at least three different locations. The explosions that took place on Friday (2nd August) injured at least four people, and were apparently a coordinated attack.
The incident happened in conjunction with Thailand hosting a Southeast Asian Security meeting that includes top diplomats from the United States, China, and other world powers. This includes dignitaries and regional diplomats such as the US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, and China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi.
According to the Daily Mail, the first small explosions were heard during rush hour, just before 9am local time at two sites near central Bangkok.
Source: Daily Mail
The third blast was heard shortly after at a government complex hosting several ministries on the northern side of the city.
It was reported that none of the blasts were very close to the meeting venue.
The authorities have so far confirmed that there were four people injured as a result of the explosions. Three of those hurt were women cleaning the streets when a bomb went off. Pictures of those wounded on local websites showed them with dazed expressions while receiving treatment from medics.
“None are serious and all are receiving medical attention at hospitals,” reported Erawan Medical Center.
Police Colonel Kamtorn Uicharoen told Reuters a total of six bombs had exploded. One was fortunately recovered before it blew up.
However, there was no immediate claim of responsibility.
Source: Daily Mail
“I would like to condemn those causing the situation which destroys peace and damages the country’s image,” said Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-Ocha before heading to the police headquarters, where he arrived at about 1.30pm.
“I have instructed officials to take care of public safety and those affected promptly.”
Thai police reported that they had found two fake bombs on Thursday (1st August) near the venue of the regional meeting. The packages prompted a brief security scare but were deemed harmless. However, it is currently unclear whether the meeting was a target or not. Two men have been apprehended in connection with the two fake bombs incident.
We hope that the perpetrator will be caught soon and brought to justice. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Thailand!
Also read: Man Gets Arrested After Joking About a Bomb In His Luggage Before Flight To KL
