6 devastating attacks that rocked Bangkok in recent years
Over the past decade, a series of violent incidents, from mass shootings to bomb explosions, has unsettled both locals and tourists.
SHAH ALAM - Bangkok, often celebrated for its vibrant culture, nightlife and tourism, has also endured moments of profound tragedy beneath its bright lights and bustling markets.
Over the past decade, a series of violent incidents, from mass shootings to bomb explosions, has unsettled both locals and tourists. These high-profile attacks expose a darker, more turbulent side of the city that lies beneath its vibrant tourist appeal.
Here are six of the most harrowing incidents that have shaken the Thai capital over the past years.
1. Malaysians Set Alight in Random Attack – Aug 7
What started as a casual evening in central Bangkok turned into horror for two young Malaysian tourists. Outside the busy Ratchaprasong intersection, a Thai man approached them with a 1.5-litre bottle of paint thinner, doused them and set them on fire.
The victims, aged 26 and 27, suffered severe burns to their faces and bodies. The assailant, 30-year-old Warakorn Pabtaisong, later admitted to the act, citing frustration over unemployment and hunger, but claimed no personal grudge.
Quick-thinking bystanders tackled him before police arrived and he now faces attempted bodily harm charges.
2. Market Shooting Leaves Five Dead – July 28
The Or Tor Kor Market in Bangkok’s Bang Sue district turned into a crime scene when a gunman opened fire at midday, killing five security guards. One other person was injured before the shooter took his own life.
Police are still investigating possible motives, including whether the attack was linked to ongoing border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia. The incident highlights the nation’s ongoing struggle with gun violence.
3. Teen Opens Fire at Siam Paragon Mall – Oct 3, 2023
Shoppers at one of Bangkok’s most famous malls fled in panic when a 14-year-old boy began firing a handgun, killing two people and injuring five. Victims included citizens of China, Myanmar, Laos and Thailand.
Authorities later revealed the teen had a history of mental health treatment but had recently stopped taking his medication. Eyewitness accounts described chaos as people hid in shops and bathrooms until police secured the scene.
4. Small Bombs During Asean Summit – Aug 2, 2019
As Bangkok hosted an international summit attended by ministers from the United States (US), United Kingdom (UK), China and Russia, six small bombs exploded in different parts of the city, injuring at least four people.
Police suspected possible links to political unrest or insurgency from Thailand’s deep south. While the devices were small and appeared intended more for disruption than mass casualties, the blasts embarrassed the government during a high-profile diplomatic event.
5. Deadly Erawan Shrine Bombing – Aug 17, 2015
One of the deadliest attacks in modern Thai history struck at the Erawan Shrine, a popular religious and tourist site, killing at least 20 people and injuring 140 more.
The explosion, at the height of rush hour, was believed to be intended to damage Thailand’s tourism industry and economy.
The shrine, located at the busy Rajprasong intersection, has symbolic and political significance and has been the site of previous political demonstrations.
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