Bangkok: Police authorities have reported that there is no evidence to support the theory of "arson to force people off the land" in the recent fire at Khlong Thom Center, despite witnesses frequently reporting smoke rising from the central area. The incident has led to the closure of Worachak Road to allow for a thorough investigation.
According to Thai News Agency, Police Major General Chaiyakrit Pho-a, the Commander of Metropolitan Police Division 6, conducted an inspection at the scene of the fire and emphasized that security measures are in place to protect victims' property. The Bangkok Governor and Major General Chaiyakrit have deemed the building unsafe, prompting a joint official investigation by Bangkok Metropolitan Administration civil engineering officers and the Royal Thai Police's Forensic Science Division scheduled for tomorrow at 8:00 AM.
The National Police Chief and the Bangkok Metropolitan Police Commissioner have directed continuous police presence to safeguard the area and prevent unauthorized access, as it has been declared a restricted fire zone by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration. The closure of Worachak Road coincides with the first day of school, and traffic police have been deployed to manage traffic on surrounding routes to minimize inconvenience.
In response to rumors about arson aimed at eviction, authorities confirmed that no evidence or clues have been found. Witnesses and property stall owners interviewed have not reported any prior conflicts related to the incident. Investigators have engaged nearly 100 witnesses and victims, focusing mainly on the damage incurred.
Witness accounts consistently describe smoke emanating from the central area, with rapid fire spread hampering initial efforts to extinguish it. Officials await the forensic investigation results expected tomorrow to determine the fire's true cause.