Shocking new video footage has emerged showing the devastating aftermath of a massive explosion at an illicit fireworks factory in central Thailand, which claimed the life of one worker and left three others with critical injuries.
Deadly Blast at Unlicensed Facility
The catastrophic explosion occurred at approximately 7:52am local time (11:52pm GMT) this morning at a warehouse in Suphanburi province, located around 70 miles north of the capital Bangkok. Workers were reportedly manufacturing pyrotechnics for the upcoming Lunar New Year celebrations when the stock suddenly ignited.
Police arriving at the scene discovered the body of 58-year-old Saneh Thongsrilang. Three other workers - identified as Chaiya Kaewboondee, 38, Wiroj Plerdplern, 58, and Amnat Phophan, 49 - were rushed to hospital with serious injuries. The facility, which had been operating with an expired licence, was mostly constructed from wood and was completely destroyed by the blast.
Chilling Aftermath Captured on Video
Video footage from the scene shows burnt debris scattered across the property, with only the wooden frame and supporting pillars remaining standing. The explosion reduced the entire factory to a shell, highlighting the destructive power of the blast.
Local emergency services in Suphan Buri issued an urgent warning to residents via social media, stating: "Make way for rescue vehicles. There is currently a fireworks explosion incident in Ban Dong Kra Chao, Rai Rot subdistrict. Please give way to officials immediately!"
A later update confirmed that firefighters had successfully brought the blaze under control and that the nearby Dong Krachao Buddhist temple had escaped damage.
Community Concerns Over Safety
The explosion has reignited concerns among local residents about fireworks production in the area. One resident expressed their worries, commenting: "I understand that it's a job, but I don't want the people of Suphanburi to produce fireworks anymore. I want brothers and sisters to be safe and I want the fireworks production to end - for the safety of the producers and owners."
Police have launched an investigation into the cause of the explosion and have begun questioning the building's owner. The incident highlights ongoing safety issues in Thailand's fireworks manufacturing sector.
Recurring Problem in Thailand
Illegal fireworks factory explosions have been a persistent issue in Thailand for several decades, resulting from lax enforcement of safety regulations, a thriving black economy, and limited resources in rural areas.
This tragic incident follows another deadly explosion at an illegal fireworks factory in Suphanburi just last July, which killed nine people and injured five others. In that incident, police found bodies scattered among debris, with six victims buried in rubble and three thrown into a nearby field by the force of the blast.
In 2023, an explosion at an illegal fireworks warehouse in Narathiwat province proved even more devastating, killing at least 12 people, injuring more than 120 others, and destroying over 200 homes and buildings.
These repeated tragedies underscore the urgent need for improved safety standards and regulatory enforcement in Thailand's fireworks manufacturing industry, particularly as demand increases ahead of major celebrations like Lunar New Year.
