The Thai Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, has ordered an urgent investigation after six foreign nationals were found dead at the Grand Hyatt Erawan hotel in Bangkok on Tuesday. The deceased include at least one American of Vietnamese descent, prompting concerns about the potential impact on Thailand's crucial tourism sector.
According to a statement from the Thai government, the prime minister has instructed all relevant agencies to take swift action to mitigate any negative impact on tourism, a key driver of Southeast Asia's second-largest economy. "The prime minister has ordered all agencies to urgently take action to avoid impact on tourism," the statement read.
The Thai police confirmed that the six individuals were all foreign nationals. Initial media reports speculated about a possible shooting, but a police official, speaking anonymously, dismissed these claims. "There is no sign of a shooting," the official stated, adding that Vietnamese nationals were among the dead. The official did not provide further details.
The U.S. and Vietnamese embassies in Bangkok have yet to respond to inquiries. Thai police officers discovered the bodies after receiving a call from the hotel's staff at approximately 5:30 PM. The bodies were found foaming at the mouth, leading investigators to suspect poisoning. "Poisoning is suspected as the cause of death," an officer from the Lumpini police station said on condition of anonymity.
The Grand Hyatt Erawan, a luxury hotel located in a popular tourist district known for upscale shopping and dining, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The hotel's prime location and high-profile clientele have heightened concerns about the incident's potential impact on tourism.
In 2023, Thailand welcomed over 28 million foreign tourists who spent a total of 1.2 trillion baht ($33.71 billion) in the country. The government anticipates 35 million foreign arrivals this year, bolstered by longer visa stay periods and waivers for several nationalities. However, the tourism sector is still recovering from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This incident follows a tragic shooting spree at a nearby luxury shopping mall last October, which resulted in the deaths of two foreigners. The government has since implemented measures to enhance safety and restore confidence among tourists.
Photos published by the Thai newspaper Matichon showed police investigating the scene at the Grand Hyatt Erawan. Five bodies were reportedly found inside a room, with one found outside. Bangkok police chief Lt. Gen. Thiti Sangsawang confirmed there were no signs of a struggle. He noted that the room's residents were supposed to check out on Tuesday and had already packed their luggage. Food ordered from room service remained uneaten, but drinks had been consumed.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin visited the scene in the evening but did not provide additional information to the gathered reporters. The incident has sparked widespread concern and speculation, particularly given the high-profile nature of the victims and the location.
Thailand's Foreign Ministry confirmed that the dead included two Vietnamese Americans and four Vietnamese nationals, without providing further identification. The mysterious circumstances surrounding their deaths have raised numerous questions, and the investigation is expected to be closely monitored both domestically and internationally.
