Arrest Warrants Issued in Skyscraper Collapse After Myanmar Quake

Authorities in Thailand have taken decisive action following the deadly collapse of a 30-storey skyscraper during the March earthquake. A total of 17 arrest warrants have been issued for individuals connected to the building’s design, construction, and supervision. The high-rise was under development to serve as the State Audit Office and came down during tremors caused by a powerful earthquake in neighboring Myanmar.

The magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Myanmar on March 28 and was felt strongly in Bangkok, Thailand. While most buildings in the Thai capital survived with little to no damage, the blue-glass tower opposite the popular Chatuchak market was completely destroyed. It had been under construction for three years and cost more than 2 billion Thai baht, roughly $59 million.

Rescue efforts began swiftly as more than 400 workers had been present on-site during the collapse. Drones, sniffer dogs, cranes, and excavators were deployed to search through the rubble. So far, 89 bodies have been recovered, while seven people remain unaccounted for. The tragedy prompted widespread public outcry and a rigorous investigation into what went wrong.

Preliminary findings have revealed potential structural flaws, particularly in the building’s lift shaft. Thai authorities are still finalizing their official report on the exact cause of the collapse. Investigators believe oversight and construction failures may have played a significant role. The investigation is being closely followed by Thai media and the public alike.

Among the 17 people named in the arrest warrants is businessman Premchai Karnasuta. He is the former president of Italian-Thai Development PLC, one of Thailand’s largest and most influential construction companies. While the other individuals involved have not yet been publicly named, the case has drawn major attention due to Karnasuta’s high profile.

Shocking footage of the earthquake aftermath circulated widely, showing buildings swaying and water from rooftop pools cascading onto the streets. Despite the intense tremors, other buildings in Bangkok remained largely intact. The State Audit Office tower stood out as the sole major casualty, raising questions about its structural integrity and construction oversight.

The Myanmar quake was catastrophic, resulting in over 3,000 deaths and more than 4,500 injuries. Its impact was felt not only across Myanmar but also in Thailand and parts of southwest China. The tragic collapse in Bangkok has now become a focal point for regional discussions about urban safety and seismic preparedness.