SONGKHLA PROVINCE, Thailand – In the aftermath of the devastating fireworks warehouse explosion on July 29, which resulted in the loss of 12 lives, injuries to 121 individuals, and extensive damage to 292 houses, authorities have made a significant breakthrough. On Saturday, August 5, the owners of the ill-fated warehouse were apprehended at the Sadao Immigration Checkpoint in Songkhla province.
Identified as Sompong Nakul and Piyanuch Peungwirawat, the owners of the warehouse were taken into custody as they attempted to cross the border from Malaysia. Immigration authorities acted swiftly, with the help of a sophisticated detection system at the checkpoint, flagging the suspects based on an existing arrest warrant.
Upon being apprehended, the suspects were immediately transported to the nearby police station in Sadao. Local police, along with officers from Narathiwat’s Muno District, initiated questioning to gather crucial information related to the explosion and its aftermath. Following the initial interrogation, the suspects are scheduled to be transferred to the Muno Police Station, which holds direct jurisdiction over the case.
The high-profile nature of the incident has drawn attention to the owners’ previous involvement with another similar incident in 2016. At that time, they were arrested for the unauthorized storage and sale of 60 tonnes of fireworks and flammable materials. However, the case did not proceed to the provincial court, raising concerns among the public about potential corruption and irregularities in the legal process.
The tragedy that struck last month has shaken the community, and the arrest of the warehouse owners has brought a sense of relief to many. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities, including Royal Thai Police Deputy Commissioner Pol Maj Gen Surachate Hakparn, are personally overseeing the proceedings to ensure a thorough and unbiased examination of the matter.
As the case unfolds, the nation waits for answers and justice for the victims and their families. The incident has also ignited discussions on the need for stronger regulations and enforcement to prevent such catastrophes in the future. Authorities and the public are keenly observing how this important legal process will unfold and whether justice will be served for those affected by this tragic event.
