6-8-2023 (BANGKOK) A local source has confirmed that the owners of a fireworks warehouse in Narathiwat, responsible for a devastating explosion that claimed the lives of 12 individuals, turned themselves in to the police on Saturday. The couple, identified as Sompong Napol, aged 42, and Piyanuch Puengwirawat, aged 42, made their way back into Thailand from Malaysia through the Sadao checkpoint. Arrest warrants had been issued by the police in connection with the explosion that occurred on July 29 in the Muno sub-district of Sungai Kolok district.
The tragic explosion not only resulted in the loss of 12 lives but also left 121 people injured and caused damage to 292 houses in the vicinity.
Following their detention at the Sadao police station, the couple, alleged to have had support from local politicians for their business, was escorted to the Muno police station for further questioning.
The charges they will face include negligence leading to death, as well as the illegal importation and sale of fireworks without the required license, which is a clear violation of the Firearms, Ammunition, Explosives, and Fireworks Act.
