On May 6, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., a joint team from the Office of the Auditor-General (OAG) began investigating the scene of a tragic collapse of their new building, which had resulted in a devastating fire and left many trapped inside. The incident has raised serious concerns regarding safety and potential corruption related to the construction project.
Mr. Suriyachai Ruangworrarat, the acting auditor of the OAG, provided updates on the ongoing search and recovery operations during a press briefing held at the command center located in the JJ Mall shopping complex. He stated that the team successfully unveiled the concrete structure of the lower floors of the OAG building, covering an area of 40 meters by 40 meters. However, the situation remains precarious, particularly in Zone B, where debris has accumulated to a height of approximately three meters.
Suriyachai emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that the area still poses risks of further collapse. "We have to work very carefully, as heavy machinery could increase the weight on unstable ground, potentially leading to more collapses," he explained. The search for the missing individuals is ongoing, with 13 people still unaccounted for from a total of 109 who were reported missing following the incident.
As of May 5, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., the OAG confirmed that 87 people had been found deceased, and 9 others were injured. The ongoing efforts to recover the remaining individuals are complicated by the structural integrity of the building, which has proven challenging due to the complexity of the debris and the need for safety precautions.
"The most significant challenge we face is the lack of experience in dismantling a building of this scale, which is over 30 stories high, while ensuring the safety of our rescue teams," said Mr. Thaiwut Khan Kaew, the acting director of the OAG. He noted that the search efforts have involved a significant number of personnel and equipment, with approximately 70 to 80 machines deployed to assist in the recovery.
Search operations are being conducted in various zones of the building, including A, B, C, and D, with the fire escape and elevator shafts identified as the areas where most bodies have been discovered. Suriyachai stated that it is believed that many victims may have fled to these locations during the emergency.
"We have been diligently searching every corner of the building, and we will continue until we have accounted for everyone," Suriyachai affirmed. The OAG is also coordinating with the National Anti-Corruption Commission to investigate the circumstances surrounding the construction project, which has raised suspicions of financial irregularities and corruption.
In addition to the search for survivors, the OAG is conducting a thorough investigation into the management and oversight of the construction process. This includes reviewing the work of approximately 200 agencies involved in the project to ensure accountability and transparency.
Suriyachai highlighted the importance of community cooperation in the ongoing investigation, stating, "We hope that the public and all involved agencies will support us as we work to uncover the truth behind this tragic incident." He expressed gratitude for the dedication of rescue workers and volunteers who have been instrumental in the recovery efforts since the building's collapse.
The OAG has committed to a detailed review of the building's construction process, with the goal of identifying any lapses that may have contributed to the disaster. As the investigation continues, officials are urging caution and diligence to prevent further incidents.
As the search and recovery operations proceed, the OAG remains hopeful that the remaining missing individuals will be found and that the investigation will lead to greater accountability for those responsible for the safety of the building. The community is rallying around the victims' families, offering support and assistance during this difficult time.
In conclusion, the OAG faces a daunting task as it navigates the complexities of this tragic incident. With the loss of lives and the potential for corruption coming to light, there is a pressing need for transparency and accountability in the aftermath of this disaster.
