Chaos as explosion rocks central Bangkok
At least 10 people have died after a bomb exploded in central Bangkok.
The explosion happened outside the Erawan Shrine in the downtown Chidlom district of the Thai capital at 7pm local time (12noon GMT).
Some reports put the death toll at ‘at least 12’, with others claiming foreign tourists are among the casualties.
Tourism Authority Thailand (TAT) has not yet received confirmed reports of the number or nationality of casualties but there are no British or Irish nationals thought to be affected.
All transport links in central Bangkok are running as usual but while the intersection is investigated there may be disruption to traffic. Hotels and shopping malls in the surrounding area will be open as normal from tomorrow (Tuesday 18th August). All other tourist attractions and services are open and operating as usual.
TAT advises tourists to remain vigilant whilst travelling through busy parts of the city and if they see anything suspicious to report it to a nearby police or security officer. Tourists should follow local news and travel advice as they travel around the city.
The FCO’s latest travel advice says: Local police have confirmed a bomb explosion at 7pm on 17 August 2015 in central Bangkok. There are reports of casualties. The British Embassy is monitoring the situation. You should monitor news reports and take extra care. https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/thailand
Lisa
Lisa joined Travel Weekly nearly 25 years ago as technology reporter and then sailed around the world for a couple of years as cruise correspondent, before becoming deputy editor. Now freelance, Lisa writes for various print and web publications, edits Corporate Traveller’s client magazine, Gateway, and works on the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife series of photography books, which raise awareness of nature’s most at-risk species and helps to fund their protection.
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