The Australian government is warning travellers to ‘keep away’ from select areas in Thailand after a bomb exploded in Bangkok yesterday, killing at least 19 people and injuring 120 others.
The explosion occurred at around 6.30pm (8.30pm AEST) in front of the Erawan shrine at the Ratchaprasong intersection – an area frequented by tourists and worshipers.
Early reports suggest international visitors may have been the target of the explosion, mostly due to its proximity to popular attractions such as the Siam Centre and Paragon malls.
Explosion in #Bangkok kills at least 19 people and injured around 120 more. http://t.co/uNGo2GkYfQ #prayforbangkok pic.twitter.com/m1z61OMLIO
— teleSUR English (@telesurenglish) August 18, 2015
It was also within walking distance of well-known hotel brands like the Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok; InterContinental Bangkok; and the Holiday Inn Bangkok.
So far there has been no immediate claim of responsibility for the blast, however, Thailand’s Defence Minister believes foreigners were the target to damage the country’s vital tourist industry.
“It was a TNT bomb … the people who did it targeted foreigners and to damage tourism and the economy.”
Prawit Wongsuwong
Photos capture fatal explosion that hit popular shrine in Bangkok, killing at least 19 people: http://t.co/pbHK0T2gSY pic.twitter.com/mQv54j3G9U
— ABC News (@ABC) August 17, 2015
Police have confirmed that of the 19 losses 10 were Thais, one Chinese and one Filipino. The nationalities of the others are still being investigated.
There have been no reports of injuries or losses amongst Australian visitors. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) said it is working closely with Thai authorities to determine whether any Australians have been affected.
“At this stage we have no information that Australians are among the deceased or seriously injured.”
DFAT Spokesperson
One rescue volunteer told media he believes the bomb was attached to a motorcycle and several other bombs were found within the vicinity, including one inside the shrine, which was defused.
The Erawan shrine is dedicated to the Hindu god Brahma and is visited by thousands of Buddhist every day.
