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SHAH ALAM – Thai authorities are investigating a man who drew public attention after appearing in military-style clothing while accompanying Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul during his visit to the scene of a deadly fire in Bangkok.
The man, identified as Chitpong Khattapong, was seen near Anutin at Rong Beer Na Lad Phrao, a bar in the Chatuchak area where a fire killed dozens of people.
Images and videos circulating online showed Chitpong wearing clothing resembling a military uniform, speaking with officials and giving comments to media outlets about the incident.
However, Thai media reported that he was not an official member of any government agency or emergency response unit involved in handling the disaster.
Chitpong, who was previously a candidate for the Bangkok Metropolitan Council in Phaya Thai district, later defended his presence at the scene, saying he was a volunteer who wanted to assist authorities.
He said he was wearing military-style clothing because he had travelled directly from a BB gun competition before going to the fire site.
“I am not a government official, but I am fully committed,” he stated, identifying himself as a civil defence volunteer in the Phaya Thai area.
Authorities have not confirmed the allegation, while investigations into the cause of the fire and the circumstances surrounding the deaths remain ongoing.
Thai Police spokesperson said investigators would examine whether Chitpong had falsely presented himself as an official and whether any statements he made had caused public misunderstanding.
As of July 15, the death toll had risen to 33, with 71 others injured. Investigations into the cause of the blaze are still ongoing.
