Police in Bangkok are moving to obtain arrest warrants for 17 individuals linked to the collapse of the State Audit Office (SAO) building, which occurred during the earthquake that struck the Thai capital on 28 March. The suspects include engineers, construction supervisors, and executives from the contractor responsible for the building’s development.
The Metropolitan Police Bureau (MPB) has concluded an extensive investigation into the incident. Evidence compiled includes physical samples, document records, and witness testimony. Key input was provided by the Council of Engineers, the Engineering Institute of Thailand, and Chulalongkorn University. Authorities also conducted forensic examinations and tested over 300 samples of steel and concrete materials used in the construction.
The individuals targeted for arrest are associated with the Italian-Thai Development and China Railway No.10 Engineering Group Co joint venture, which oversaw the SAO high-rise project. They face charges under Sections 227 and 238 of Thailand’s Criminal Code, which cover professional negligence leading to fatalities.
The SAO building, located in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district, was the only high-rise to collapse during the Myanmar-centred earthquake. At the time of the incident, 109 people were reported to be inside. Search and rescue teams have recovered 89 bodies, and seven people remain unaccounted for. Nine others sustained injuries, while four workers who were scheduled to be on-site were later confirmed to have left the area safely.
Auditor-General Montien Charoenphol addressed concerns about potential legal implications, including allegations of bid-rigging and nominee arrangements. He stated that although he assumed his position only last year, long after the project began, he intends to cooperate fully with investigators. Responding to criticism over the agency’s delayed response to victims’ families, Montien insisted that SAO representatives had visited and offered apologies to all affected households across the country.
