BANGKOK: Two Malaysians have been confirmed to be among at least 22 people killed in a bomb blast in central Bangkok which also injured dozens others.
The Malaysian fatalities were confirmed by a Malaysian embassy official in the Thai capital.
The explosion at about 7pm (8 pm Malaysian time) occurred at the Ratchaprasong intersection, near the famous Erawan Shrine and Bangkok’s colourful and high-street shopping.
It also damaged several cars and motorcycles. It was also reported that street vendors along the road were believed to be among the victims of the explosion.
Thai police chief Gen Somyot Poompanmouag said those killed including possibly China and Philippine nationals.
Other police sources said the victims might also include visitors from Japan and Hong Kong.
Somyot chaired a meeting at the police headquarters after visiting the site of the blast.
He had earlier said that the explosion was caused by a TNT bomb.
An unconfirmed report from a police source stated there might be two more unexploded bombs, indicating that those responsible wanted to cause major damage.
Despite the bombing located not far from the Chitlom station of the rail service of Bangkok Train Service or popularly known skytrain, the service still continues.
Major Gen Weerachon Sukhonthapatipak, the deputy government spokesman said Prime Minister Gen Prayuth Chan-ocha had already been informed of the bomb explosion and he had instructed the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team to go to the area.
He said, so far, there was no plan to close schools and banks near the area.--BERNAMA
Following is the statement from Wisma Putra
The government of Malaysia wishes to extend its deepest sympathies to the government and people of the Kingdom of Thailand on the bombing incident in the Ratchaprasong District of Bangkok on the evening of August 17, which resulted in loss of life and injuries.
The Malaysian Government, through its Embassy in Bangkok, is working closely with Thai authorities in determining if any Malaysians were among those affected by the bombing.
The Ministry also advises Malaysians in the country especially in Bangkok to closely monitor and follow instructions issued by the authorities of Thailand. Any Malaysian requiring consular assistance may contact the Embassy of Malaysia in Bangkok, as follows:
Embassy of Malaysia, Bangkok 33-35 South Sathorn Road Tungmahamek, 10120 Bangkok, Thailand
Tel: +662 629 6800 / +6687 028 4659 (after working hours)
Fax: +662 679 2208 / +662 679 2270
Email: malbangkok@kln.gov.my