Bangkok High-Rise Collapse and Criminal Negligence Charges

SOURCE www.npr.org
Construction magnate, designers, and engineers surrendered to police on criminal negligence charges for the deadly collapse of a Bangkok high-rise during an earthquake. Premchai Karnasuta, president of Italian-Thai Development Co, and others denied charges. 92 people died in the collapse. Evidence showed building plan did not meet standards. Allegations of irregular documentation and structural flaws have been reported. The earthquake had its epicenter in Myanmar, killing over 3,700 people. Premchai Karnasuta has a history of legal issues, including wildlife poaching.

Key Points

  • Premchai Karnasuta and others surrendered to police on criminal negligence charges
  • Building plan did not meet standards and had structural flaws
  • Allegations of irregular documentation and wrongdoing in the project have been reported
  • Epicenter of the earthquake was in Myanmar, killing over 3,700 people
  • Premchai Karnasuta has a history of legal issues including wildlife poaching

Pros

  • Justice for the victims and their families
  • Holding responsible parties accountable for negligence

Cons

  • Loss of 92 lives in the collapse
  • Potential long legal battle and negative impact on construction industry in Thailand