BANGKOK: At least 23 people were killed in a devastating explosion at a fireworks factory near Sala Khao township in Suphan Buri province in central Thailand, the provincial governor said.
Images shared by the rescue service showed metal debris scattered across the ground, accompanied by a massive plume of black smoke. The blast, which occurred around 3:00 pm local time, prompted an immediate response from emergency services.
Governor Nattapat Suwanprateep confirmed the death toll based on reports from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team. The cause of the explosion remains unknown, and officials are actively investigating the incident. Notably, the factory was reported to be operating legally with valid licenses.
Damages from Fireworks Factory Blast in Thailand
While there was no significant damage to the surrounding area, one house did experience the impact of the explosion, with shattered glass windows. Authorities have sealed off the vicinity, and further details, including the identification of bodies, will be addressed once the situation stabilizes.
Police Lieutenant General Naiyawat Phademchid informed AFP that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, currently attending the World Economic Forum in Switzerland, has been briefed on the incident. The official death toll is subject to confirmation, and the Prime Minister has ordered an investigation into the factory’s legal status and the circumstances leading to the tragedy.
Explosions at workshops involved in the production of fireworks and pyrotechnics are unfortunately not uncommon in Thailand. Last year, a fireworks warehouse explosion in southern Narathiwat province resulted in 10 fatalities, with the cause attributed to welding during construction work.
