On May 7, 2025, Suriyachai Ruangworrarat, the Director of the Bangkok Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office, provided an update on the ongoing search for victims following the collapse of the Office of the Auditor General building in Huai Khwang, Bangkok. The incident, which occurred on March 28, resulted in a tragic loss of life, with reports indicating that 89 individuals have died and 11 remain missing.
As the search operation continues, authorities are focusing on three zones: A, B, and D, where they believe additional victims may be trapped. Currently, 12 individuals are still unaccounted for, and the search efforts are intensifying as teams work to clear debris and investigate these areas thoroughly.
Zone D is adjacent to the collapsed structure and has shown signs of debris spilling out, prompting search teams to explore this area further. Meanwhile, Zone A, which connects to Zone D, is also under scrutiny as officials aim to confirm that no victims remain trapped there.
However, the most critical area appears to be Zone B, which is located near the collapsed building and has been identified by K9 units as a potential site for more victims. Earlier inspections revealed that the dogs indicated possible signs of life in this zone, leading to increased urgency in the search efforts.
In a statement, Suriyachai noted, "The K9 dogs have detected signals in Zone B, and we are focusing our efforts there to ensure a thorough search. We have received reports from the field indicating that there are scents detected intermittently, which raises our hopes of finding additional victims. We are currently working to remove debris to access the areas pinpointed by the K9 units."
To ensure the safety of the search team, the operation in Zone B is being conducted with utmost caution. Heavy machinery will not be used directly on the site due to structural instability; instead, excavators are being utilized to carefully remove concrete and cut through metal debris without adding additional weight to the compromised structure.
As of the latest updates, a total of 109 individuals have been accounted for, with 89 confirmed deceased and 9 injured. The number of missing persons has fluctuated, with the latest count reflecting an increase from 103 to 109, as ongoing investigations and DNA testing are being conducted to confirm identities.
Suriyachai emphasized the importance of collaboration among various agencies involved in the search and recovery process. A meeting was scheduled for the afternoon of May 7, where representatives from the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department, forensic experts, and local law enforcement gathered to discuss the latest findings and coordinate further search operations.
"We are working closely with the police and forensic teams to ensure that all evidence is collected properly and that we leave no stone unturned in our search for the missing," Suriyachai stated. "The goal is to confirm the status of all individuals reported missing and to provide closure to their families as soon as possible."
In addition to the manual search efforts, authorities are employing drones equipped with thermal imaging technology to assist in locating any remaining victims. This high-tech approach aims to enhance the efficiency of the search and ensure that all areas are thoroughly inspected.
Suriyachai also mentioned that the search teams are prepared to extend their operations if necessary, stating, "If we encounter any obstacles or if additional equipment is needed, we will not hesitate to request it to ensure the safety and thoroughness of our operation."
As the search continues, the community remains hopeful that more victims will be found, and Suriyachai reassured the public that the operation is proceeding according to plan. "We are committed to completing the search within the next two days, barring any unforeseen complications," he said.
The emotional toll of the disaster has been significant, with families of the missing anxiously awaiting updates on their loved ones. The city has mobilized resources to provide support for those affected, ensuring that they have access to counseling and assistance during this difficult time.
As the search progresses, the focus remains on ensuring that all victims are accounted for, and the authorities are determined to return the area to the Office of the Auditor General as soon as the recovery efforts are completed. Suriyachai confirmed, "We are on track to hand over the site back to the Office of the Auditor General within the designated timeframe, as soon as we can confirm that no one else is trapped within the debris."
In the wake of this tragic event, the community has rallied together, showcasing resilience and support for one another. The ongoing search and recovery efforts serve as a reminder of the importance of safety measures in construction and the need for preparedness in the face of natural disasters.
As the situation develops, updates will continue to be provided, and the authorities remain committed to transparency and communication with the public. The hope is that closure will soon come for the families of the victims as the search concludes and the community begins to heal.
