Anutin orders anti-theft patrols and aid for Khlong Thom traders
The prime minister orders extra police patrols and opens a one-stop centre for traders as crews tackle hotspots and hazardous smoke
- Prime Minister Anutin ordered increased police patrols to guard traders' property against potential looting in the fire-damaged area.
- A one-stop service center has been established to provide assistance and a compensation process for affected businesses, especially those without insurance.
- After inspecting the site, Anutin confirmed the blaze was under control and advised the public to avoid the area due to hazardous smoke from burnt materials.
Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul inspected Khlong Thom Centre on Saturday (August 29, 2026), ordering tighter security to protect traders’ property and faster assistance for businesses affected by the major fire.
A post on the FC Anutin page said the prime minister toured the site, spoke to residents and traders and monitored the work of emergency personnel who had been battling the blaze since the previous night.
Firefighters continued spraying water because hotspots and occasional flare-ups remained inside the damaged building.
An excavator was needed to clear an access route so crews could reach areas deeper inside the centre.
Anutin said the overall situation had been brought under control, with no indication that the fire would again spread widely.
Public advised to avoid smoke
The centre contained electrical equipment and other materials capable of producing dense smoke and strong odours, Anutin said.
People without an urgent reason to visit the area were advised to stay away. Anyone who needed to approach the site should wear a face mask to reduce the risk of respiratory effects.
Anutin said the government, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and other agencies had mobilised personnel throughout the night and prevented the fire from spreading to nearby homes.
Those injured had received medical care, while the person who had been in a serious condition was reported to be out of danger.
Police ordered to protect traders’ property
Following reports that people had attempted to steal traders’ goods during the emergency, Anutin instructed police to increase patrols and closely protect property within the restricted area.
He warned anyone considering exploiting the disaster that offenders would face decisive legal action if caught.
The tighter security measures are intended to protect shops while operators remain unable to enter the damaged and restricted premises.
One-stop centre opens for affected operators
The BMA and government agencies have established a one-stop service centre at Wat Phra Phiren for affected businesses, particularly stallholders without insurance.
Operators can register, report their losses and enter the assistance and compensation process under disaster-relief regulations.
Buildings and other property covered by insurance will proceed through the relevant claims process.
The owner of Khlong Thom Centre said the fire had caused extensive damage. Combined with the growing shift from physical retailing to online commerce, the owner was uncertain whether the centre would reopen in its previous form.
Anutin said he understood the concerns of the owner and traders because Khlong Thom had provided commercial space and livelihoods for decades.
Further discussions would be needed to determine whether the centre could resume retail operations or adopt a different commercial format. The viability of any future business model would also have to be considered amid changing market competition, he added.
Cause remains under investigation
Responding to speculation that the fire might have been deliberately started to force traders from the site, Anutin urged the public not to make assumptions that could further distress those affected.
He said the site stood on property belonging to the Crown and that he saw no reason for such an act.
The cause of the fire has not been established. Forensic officers must conduct a detailed examination before authorities can reach an official conclusion.
