bangkok bomb
By: O. Safitrie*)
A huge blast exploded at a popular Hindu shrine in central Bangkok on Monday (17/8) causing at least 21 people dead and 120 others wounded. The victims are both local and foreigners from various nationalities that have not been released, but mostly Chinese.
The bomb was placed at Erawan Shrine, one of many must-visit-destination in Bangkok. The area is also famous as a shopping and hotel district. This holy shrine is located directly across Grand Hyatt Bangkok.
The TNT bomb was claimed targeting foreigner and causing damage on Thai Tourism Industries. It exploded during the rush hour in Downtown Bangkok. The time of explosion seems to be planned to be during the most crowded time in the shrines to maximize the number of casualties.
The incident was unexpected. Some witnesses said that it was so frightening.
“It was like this huge gust of wind and debris flying through you… And then I see bodies everywhere, there are cars on fire, there are bikes everywhere. People are screaming.” recalled Sanjeev Vyas, a DJ from Mumbai, India, who was in the middle of the Ray quoted from CNN.
It is reported that twelve people died at the scene, while some others died later. None has so far claiming responsibility for this attack. This incident indeed might change people perception on Thai Tourism that previously believed to be safe. NY Times wrote that Thailand is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia, especially for Chinese tourists.
*) The author is CIDISS contributor region Singapore
