Explosion in central Bangkok: Thailand to hunt those responsible

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Thai authorities are searching for a man wearing a yellow T-shirt, recorded on video leaving a backpack shortly before a pipe-bomb exploded two days ago near Erawan Hindu Shrine, Bangkok.

The shrine is a popular attraction in Thailand's capital, where at least 20 people, including at least eight foreigners, are reported dead with upwards of 100 injured.

The blast occurred at approximately 7pm on Monday local time (1200 UTC), when central Bangkok was flooded with pedestrian activity. Authorities say the suspect may have already left Thailand and was assisted by others.

Following months of political unrest, since the explosion the Thai baht hit a six year low.

According to Defence Minister Prawit Wonguwan speaking to Reuters, the bombing was a deliberate attack on the country's economy and tourism industry.

Military authorities said Muslim insurgents from the country's southern provinces are unlikely to be behind the attack.

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Sources

Raziye Akkoc. "Bangkok bomb: Suspect described as probably having some 'Middle Eastern blood' - live updates" — The Daily Telegraph, August 19, 2015
Lindsay Murdoch. "Bangkok bombing investigation: no shortage of suspects in Erawan Shrine attack" — The Sydney Morning Herald, August 18, 2015
"Thailand sets up 'war room' to hunt Bangkok bombers" — Al Jazeera, August 18, 2015
Amy Sawitta Lefevre and Aukkarapon Niyomyat. "Thai authorities say looking for suspect seen in CCTV footage at blast site" — Reuters, August 18, 2015
Lindsay Murdoch. "Bangkok bombing: Explosion in centre of Thai capital leaves more than 20 dead" — The Sydney Morning Herald, August 18, 2015
AAP. "Thai baht, tourism shares hit over blast" — Sky News, August 18, 2015

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