Bangkok: The Prime Minister revealed that several blind spots were found, making fire escape routes invisible, and ordered full compensation for the injured and deceased. The Prime Minister requested time to await police investigation into the fire at the Lat Phrao brewery, noting several blind spots and unclear escape routes. He declined to comment on the possibility of doors being locked to prevent customers from escaping without paying, pending forensic and police conclusions on the cause of the fire. He also ordered full support and compensation for the injured and deceased.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul stated that he wanted to wait for the official report, but from his visit to the scene, he observed several blind spots where escape routes would be impossible if a fire broke out. However, initial investigations revealed that the restaurant had a license to operate and allowed live music until midnight, as per the law. The incident occurred around 11 PM.
This location was not designated as an entertainment venue. If it were, it wouldn't be able to operate here because it's outside the zoning area. Therefore, it operates as a food business, not a pub, bar, or club. Regarding compensation, the Prime Minister stated that they are fully caring for the sick and injured. For the deceased, various funds from different agencies will be used to assist and compensate the families. Bangkok Governor Chatchart Sittipunt and other executives welcomed the Prime Minister, who pledged support from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) in all aspects, including addressing flooding, traffic, public transportation, and improving the quality of life. It was reported that a moment of silence was observed at the meeting for those who died in the brewery fire at Lat Phrao.
Governor Chatchart stated that the establishment in question was not an entertainment venue and was outside the designated zoning area. It had obtained a license as a restaurant and live music venue, in accordance with the law. There were two fire exits, but they were obstructed. He explained that the entertainment venue law clearly defines three zones: Patpong, RCA, and Silom. Entertainment venues need to adapt to the changing conditions, and measures need to be taken to strengthen the law and cover all areas. He also mentioned that discussions regarding zoning adjustments have already been held with the police and the Ministry of Interior, but currently, no one has changed the regulations concerning entertainment venues.
Regarding whether there will be further inspections of establishments in all 50 districts of Bangkok, Governor Chatchart responded that inspections are typically conducted during the actual operating hours of the establishment. This is because inspections during the preparation phase by business owners might result in irregularities. Therefore, random inspections during business operations are necessary.