Thai construction magnate surrenders on felony negligence charges over building collapse in quake
Associated PressMAY 2
Arrest Warrants Issued Over Bangkok Building Collapse
Above: The site of an under-construction building collapse in Bangkok on March 29, 2025, a day after an earthquake struck central Myanmar and Thailand. Image copyright: STR/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Government-critical narrative
While it's easy to rush to judgment after a disaster, it's important to note that Thailand is one of the few countries without a government construction regulator, as evidence points to corruption being rife in Thai construction. It is clear that this is evidence of top-to-bottom rot in the industry and government, and is part of a much bigger problem with few easy scapegoats.
Pro-government narrative
This catastrophe has much more to do with China than Thailand, as Chinese companies flout the law and pour cash into the economy through grey channels. Chinese state enterprises have been linked to such tragic accidents and are known to cut corners. Regulation of foreign companies will be a major priority going forward.