Pub fire probe begins

Initial checks reveal multiple violations

A preliminary inspection into the deadly inferno at Rong Beer Na Ladprao beer hall has uncovered multiple safety violations, as police investigate the blaze that killed at least 32 people and injured 73 others.

The Interior Ministry found that a fire escape route at the rear of the premises was blocked by a candy stall, while an emergency exit was marked "Do Not Open (Staff Only)", causing confusion among customers trying to flee.

Officials also found that fire-resistant materials were not used in the building's construction or interior decoration.

The inspection was conducted with police, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and other relevant agencies, including the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning.

Authorities believe the fire may have started from an electrical short circuit in an air-conditioning unit above the ceiling before spreading rapidly, although the cause has yet to be confirmed.

The venue did not have a licence to operate as an entertainment venue and only held licences for a restaurant and live music performances. It was also located outside an area zoned for entertainment establishments.

Further inspections will determine whether the building was authorised for its current use and whether illegal modifications were made.

National police chief Pol Gen Kittharath Punpetch said a joint investigation team had been formed to examine the case, including business partnerships and officials involved in licensing and inspections.

"Police are also inspecting the building's electrical system, circuit breakers, sprinkler system and structural modifications to determine whether negligence contributed to the deaths," he said.

Pol Gen Kittharath said officials found two entrances at the front and two exits at the rear, but one exit near the toilets was blocked by a stall. Another had no doorknob and was obstructed by shelves and lockers, leaving only a narrow passage.

"Many victims were found in the men's and women's toilets. Officials believe they may have been unable to see escape routes after thick smoke filled the venue and the power failed," he said.

He said the tragedy highlighted the need for entertainment venue operators to prioritise customer safety over commercial interests.

Pol Maj Gen Panlop Araemla, deputy commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, said police had yet to interview witnesses to verify reports that staff locked doors to prevent customers leaving without paying.

The bodies were sent to the Police General Hospital for identification. As of Monday afternoon, 32 people had died, and 73 others were injured, including 22 in serious condition. About 45 people believed to have been inside the venue remained unaccounted for.

Anurat Khruachaem, assistant to the Chatuchak district director, said officials inspected the venue in April.

The BMA will conduct further inspections to assess the building's structural integrity and determine whether it remains safe.