In a joint press briefing held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand today, key government officials addressed the nation and international community following the shocking shooting incident that occurred at Bangkok’s renowned Siam Paragon shopping center on October 3, 2023. The incident resulted in the tragic deaths of two women, one Chinese and one from Myanmar, as well as injuries to five others.
The high-level briefing included Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Jakkapong Sangmanee, Minister of Tourism and Sports Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs Sarun Charoensuwan, Assistant Commissioner of Royal Thai Police Pol. Lt. Gen. Samran Nuanma, and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports Arrun Boonchai.
The key points addressed during the press briefing are as follows:
- Prime Minister’s Immediate Actions: Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin took swift action following the incident by personally reaching out to the Chinese Ambassador and the Myanmar Ambassador to Thailand. In these conversations, he conveyed his deepest condolences for the loss of their citizens and assured them that Thailand would provide the victims and their families with the utmost assistance and remedies.
- Situation Command Center: Thai authorities announced the establishment of a “Situation Command Center,” set to be operational from October 5, 2023. This center will serve as the main channel of communication with the concerned embassies, facilitating coordination of assistance and support for the victims and their families.
- Special Measures: To address the immediate aftermath of the incident and ensure the safety and well-being of all visitors and residents, authorities have devised three critical measures:a. Enhanced Safety Standards: Authorities are committed to increasing safety standards across all areas of the city. This includes bolstered security measures in public places to prevent such incidents in the future.
b. Mental Health Support: Recognizing the emotional trauma suffered by both Thai and foreign victims, comprehensive mental health support will be provided to help them cope with the aftermath of the incident.
c. Rebuilding Tourism Image: In an effort to restore confidence in Thai tourism, a multi-level communication strategy has been developed. This strategy encompasses short-term and long-term measures aimed at improving the overall safety of the Thai tourism industry.
The police reemphasized that the incident was an isolated event and not indicative of a continuing threat. Authorities are working diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents and visitors, and these measures reflect their commitment to this mission.
The Thai government, in collaboration with concerned embassies, is determined to provide assistance and support to the victims and their families during this difficult time and to strengthen the nation’s security measures to prevent such incidents in the future.