Thai soldier guards the attack scene at Phramongkutklao military hospital (Photo: EPA/VNA) Bangkok (VNA) – Thai police revealed that Watana Pumret, aged 62, a former engineer of the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, is the suspect of the bombing at a military hospital in Bangkok in May.
Thai Defence Minister Prawit Wongsuwan has affirmed the information, adding that the suspect was arrested for investigation.
Sources from the Thai military on June 16 said that Pumret has opposed the Thai army’s seizure of power. He admitted to set up bomb at Phramongkutklao hospital by himself, showing his hostility toward the Thai government, the National Council for Peace and Order and Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha.
The suspect also claimed responsibility for the blasts at the National Theatre, the office of the government lottery and three other places in the capital city of Bangkok.
Earlier, Pumret was caught after Thai police screened the attacked hospital’s security camera. Spokesperson of the Thai defence ministry Kongcheep Tantravanich said that authorised agencies have conducted further probe to catch other suspects and find their main motive.
The police also discovered materials to make bombs and four ready for use explosive devices during a search of his house.
The suspect is being interrogated at a military base under direct supervision of the first Army commander Apirat Kongsompong. He could face allegation of illegally making explosives and even terrorism if evidence is found.
The bombing at the Phramongkutklao military hospital in Ratchathewi province on May 22 injured at least 24 people. The incident came on the third anniversary of the Thai army's seizure of power.
After the attack, authorities of Thailand have stepped up security measures and ordered nationwide security agencies to be on alert.-VNA
