Bomb Attack at Thai Festival Leaves Three Dead, Dozens Injured

Photo by - BBC
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15 December 2024 - 16:30
At least three people were killed and 48 others injured in a bomb attack at the Red Cross Doi Loyfa fair in Umphang, northern Thailand, late Friday night. The explosion occurred just before midnight local time, during the popular annual festival in the Tak province.
Authorities reported that the bomb, believed to be an improvised explosive device (IED), was thrown into a crowd near an outdoor stage where people were dancing. The blast left six people in critical condition, with many others suffering from varying degrees of injury. Emergency responders were quick to arrive at the scene, and some of the injured were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
The attack, which occurred on the penultimate night of the week-long festival, has left the local community in shock. Festival-goers were caught in a state of panic, with footage posted on social media showing emergency workers tending to the wounded amid chaotic scenes. In one video, CPR was administered to two people, while another clip showed a man being treated for severe leg injuries.
Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the attack, although no formal charges have been filed as of yet. Thai police have stated that they are continuing to investigate the incident, with reports suggesting the explosion may have been an act of terrorism.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed her condolences to the families of the victims and ordered an immediate investigation into the attack. She also directed police and security agencies to bolster safety measures at all future festivals to prevent further violence.
The Red Cross Doi Loyfa fair, which attracts thousands of attendees each year, is held in Umphang, a district located near the border with Myanmar. This year’s festival saw between 8,000 and 9,000 people in attendance. The attack has raised concerns about security in the region, which shares a border with conflict-prone areas of Myanmar.
Authorities continue to piece together the details of the bombing as they work to provide support to those affected by the tragedy.