Site of bomb blast in Bangkok reopens to public
BANGKOK A central Bangkok shrine where a deadly bomb blast killed 20 people reopened Wednesday to the public as authorities searched for a man seen in a grainy security video who they say is the prime suspect in an attack authorities called the worst in the Thailand’s history.
A stream of people arrived at the Erawan Shrine, kneeling in prayer, lighting incense and placing flowers at the site where 36 hours earlier an explosion scattered body parts across one of the capital’s busiest intersections. Buddhist monks in saffron robes joined members of the public to chant prayers at the popular Hindu shrine.
Among those who paid respects was an office worker, Nuansupha Sarunsikarin, who expressed shock and sadness over the attack, which no one has claimed responsibility for. Authorities say it came by surprise, with no clear motive.
“I’m depressed for those innocent people who had to pay for something they’re not involved with and now have no chance to live their lives,” Nuansupha said.
Police said they had no doubt that the man seen in the video wearing a yellow shirt and carrying a large, dark-colored backpack was responsible for the attack. But authorities gave no indication that they were aware of his whereabouts.
“The yellow shirt guy is not just the suspect. He is the bomber,” police spokesman Lt. Gen. Prawut Thavornsiri told The Associated Press-Tuesday.
Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha called the bombing at the shrine, located in an upscale neighbourhood of shopping malls and 5-star hotels, “the worst incident that has ever happened in Thailand.” More than 120 people were injured in the attack, and he promised to track down those responsible.
“There have been minor bombs or just noise, but this time they aimed for innocent lives,” Prayuth said. “They want to destroy our economy, our tourism.”
Prawut released several photos of the man, with and without the backpack, on social media. The images were apparently taken from closedcircuit video at the shrine before the bomb exploded.