All relevant agencies have been working closely together to provide immediate assistance for the people affected by an explosion at a fireworks warehouse in Muno subdistrict, Su-ngai Kolok district, Narathiwat province.

The explosion and subsequent fire took place in the afternoon of 29 July 2023 and caused huge damage to the people’s lives and property. Latest reports on 1 August show that 11 people were killed and 121 injured. A total of 427 families surrounding the warehouse were affected.

After the incident, the Narathiwat Governor has set up a relief center, and the public and private sectors, military and police forces, and local administrative organizations, as well as charitable organizations in and outside Narathiwat, have mobilized efforts to help the affected people, in terms of financial assistance, housing, psychological support, and more.

His Majesty the King donated necessary items for the victims and had a “royal kitchen” established to cook food for the affected people and officials in their operations to help them. Military forces have also assisted in repairing houses, while 13 hospitals have offered emergency medical services, as well as mental health rehabilitation.

Officials have so far issued arrest warrants for the prosecution of wrongdoers, who will be accused of causing the explosion, resulting in deaths, injury, and considerable damage in the people’s property. They will also be charged with possession of explosives and sale of fireworks in the deep South, which is a security area.

Prime Minister and Defense Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha has stressed strict law enforcement and the examination of the licenses, sites, and sources of fireworks to ensure the safety of the people and their property. He instructed relevant officials to provide full assistance to the affected people in Narathiwat. The Prime Minister is also monitoring the operations of providing relief assistance to the people and their families affected by the tragic incident.