No evidence yet of arson in Klongthom Centre fire

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt stated on Sunday that no evidence of arson has been found in the Klongthom Shopping Centre fire, dispelling conspiracy theories aimed at forcing businesses out, according to a report from <source 214470bf-8eb>. Metropolitan Police Division 6 Commander Pol Maj Gen Chaikrit Pho-a informed that police had questioned nearly 100 witnesses and affected parties, with the majority of accounts suggesting smoke was first noticed emerging from the central area of the building before the fire rapidly spread through the complex.

The massive blaze, which occurred on Friday night at the popular shopping center on Worachak Road, inflicted significant damage, including the collapse of substantial portions of the building.

During his visit to the site on Sunday alongside officials from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and local police, Chadchart emphasized that authorities were concentrating on three main objectives: quenching any remaining hotspots, evaluating the structural integrity of the building, and preparing for its eventual demolition.

The interior access remained restricted due to the collapse of the second floor, leaving columns, beams, and debris in the lower-level retail area, posing safety hazards for emergency personnel and hindering a complete inspection. The BMA plans to enlist structural experts who previously supported the response to the State Audit Office tower's collapse to identify which sections can be safely dismantled to allow crews access to hotspots.

Authorities prepared a map of the area believed to have been the fire's origin point and its progression through the building using CCTV footage, video clips, and social media images available on Sunday.

If it becomes safe to do so, forensic police and BMA engineers are slated to begin their investigation on Monday at 8 am, focusing on the suspected ignition point, electrical systems, and access records to the building. Chadchart noted that while the building's main power supply is typically switched off around 8 pm daily, the fire ignited shortly before 9 pm, prompting the need to verify the electrical system and ascertain when power was cut.

The investigation has thus far uncovered no indication of arson or any alleged plot to compel businesses to vacate the market building. Most of those questioned expressed concerns over damage to their goods and property. Police have maintained constant security at the scene and barred traders or business operators from entering due to the ongoing structural instability.

The definitive cause of the fire will only be determined following completion of forensic examinations and structural assessments, Chadchart concluded.