On April 18, 2025, authorities intensified efforts to investigate the collapse of the new office building of the State Audit Office (SAO) in Chatuchak, Bangkok, which had been attributed to an earthquake. The investigation not only aims to uncover the causes of the disaster but also to determine accountability for the incident.
The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has been active in gathering evidence related to alleged fraud concerning the STARK company. Officials executed search warrants at China Raywell Company and four other major contractors, seizing a significant amount of documentation for further analysis. Reports indicate that the DSI uncovered financial irregularities linked to a bidding scheme known as "Hau Premul," which involved collusion and deceptive accounting practices that have caused substantial losses to shareholders.
Among those implicated are approximately 51 individuals, including Mr. Somkiat, who remains in custody. Another key figure, Mr. Chaiyuth, has also been identified as having ties to the DSI. The DSI's investigations have led to the identification of at least two individuals who were involved in the project, raising concerns about their roles and responsibilities.
As part of their ongoing inquiries, the police have already interviewed 117 witnesses, although some have requested to postpone their testimonies. If any individuals fail to appear, the authorities are prepared to issue summons to ensure their cooperation. In a related development, two engineers from Italienthai Company are scheduled to provide testimony today, and the DSI is also set to question accountants and bidders involved in the project from April 18 to May 15.
In a separate but related investigation, a witness known as "Chang Bierd" provided critical insights during his second session with the police, revealing the identities of several individuals involved in the project and their respective companies. He claimed that the construction materials used, particularly the steel and concrete, did not meet the required standards, raising alarms about the overall safety of the building.
Chang Bierd emphasized the urgency of addressing the issues surrounding the collapsed building before considering any new construction projects. He stated, "Before we think about building new structures, we need to resolve the problems with the existing ones. Many families are still waiting for clarity on how they will be compensated for their losses." He also expressed confidence that he would receive his owed payments by May, assuming no further delays occur.
As investigations continue, the STRONG group has been actively posting images highlighting the poor quality of the concrete used in the building's construction. Photos showing loose concrete on the third-floor parking area near the elevator have raised further concerns about the integrity of the building. These revelations have led to widespread scrutiny over the construction practices and inspection protocols employed in this project.
In response to the tragedy, Vice Admiral Aphiramet Ngernbamrung, head of the Naval Dockyard Department, has mobilized personnel from the Thonburi Naval Dockyard to assist in search and rescue operations at the collapsed SAO building. The primary goal is to locate any remaining individuals trapped under the rubble while ensuring the safety and morale of the rescue workers. Aphiramet has stressed the importance of diligence and safety during these operations, saying, "We must prioritize the safety of our personnel while providing assistance to the affected families."
The rescue efforts and investigations into the STARK building collapse reflect a broader concern regarding safety standards in construction projects across Thailand. As the government faces increasing pressure to ensure accountability and transparency, the outcomes of these investigations will likely have lasting implications for regulatory practices in the construction industry.
As the situation unfolds, the families of the victims continue to seek answers and justice, hoping that the ongoing investigations will lead to accountability for those responsible for the tragedy. The DSI's commitment to uncovering the truth and ensuring that such incidents do not recur is paramount in restoring public confidence in the safety of construction practices in the country.
In the wake of the collapse, the focus remains not only on the immediate rescue efforts but also on the long-term implications for construction regulations and safety standards in Thailand. With the DSI and other authorities actively pursuing the truth, the hope is that this tragedy will serve as a catalyst for much-needed reforms in the industry.
