In Bangkok, Thai officials have concluded their search efforts at a construction site that collapsed after a significant earthquake, ending a tragedy that resulted in numerous fatalities. The disaster unfolded following a strong earthquake on March 28, with its epicenter in Myanmar, over 800 miles away from Bangkok, claiming at least 96 lives at the site within the Thai capital. The quakeโs toll extended beyond national borders, with over 3,000 people losing their lives in Myanmar.
Authorities have so far recovered 89 bodies from the debris, while seven individuals are still reported missing. Efforts to identify these remaining individuals involve meticulous testing of numerous human remains found among the rubble. The incident has raised concerns regarding the adherence to construction safety protocols and possible corruption issues. The building, intended to serve as the new office for the State Audit Office, was notably the only structure to fully collapse during the quake, prompting investigations into the matter.
Law enforcement officials continue with their probe, collecting evidence from the collapse site through the end of the month. The investigation has spotlighted various companies and individuals potentially linked to misconduct, notably the state-run Chinese firm, China Railway No. 10 Engineering Group. This scrutiny led to the arrest of a Chinese executive named Zhang, alongside three Thai shareholders, due to suspicions of conducting business through nominees.
In Thailand, foreign enterprises can function if formed as joint ventures with Thai partners, with foreigners prohibited from owning a majority stake to maintain local economic balance. Meanwhile, Xin Ke Yuan Steel, another Thai-Chinese venture, is under examination for the quality of steel rods supplied for the construction. The Industry Minister disclosed that two types of steel rods found at the collapse site did not meet safety standards and were supplied by Xin Ke Yuan, although the company has denied any allegations of malpractice.