Daijiworld Media Network – Bangkok

Bangkok, Jul 13: At least 27 people were killed after a massive fire engulfed the Na Ladprao pub in the northern part of Thailand's capital, Bangkok, in the early hours of Monday. Several others were injured and rushed to hospitals, while authorities launched an investigation into the cause of the blaze.

Videos shared online by first responders showed flames tearing through the pub as thick black smoke poured from the front entrance. Panic-stricken patrons were seen attempting to escape as smoke rapidly filled the building. Rescue teams said the fire was reported shortly after midnight.

Thailand Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who visited the scene, confirmed that 27 people had lost their lives. He said several of the injured were receiving treatment in hospitals and that officials were investigating the circumstances leading to the fire.

According to the Prime Minister, a musician performing at the pub told him that smoke began emerging from a circuit breaker near the stage before the electricity supply suddenly failed. Moments later, an explosion was heard and dense smoke quickly spread throughout the venue.

Anutin said many of the victims were discovered inside the restrooms located at the rear of the pub, apparently after becoming trapped while attempting to escape.

Firefighters battled the blaze for around 30 minutes before bringing it under control. Images from the site later showed the pub's interior extensively damaged, with charred tables, chairs and other furnishings.

Thailand has witnessed similar fire disasters in the past. In 2022, a blaze at a music pub in the eastern part of the country claimed 14 lives. Earlier, on New Year's Day in 2009, a devastating fire at Bangkok's Santika nightclub killed 66 people and injured more than 200 others. That fire was believed to have been triggered by an indoor fireworks display.