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Government Appeals to Stop Sharing Images of Victims and Injured in Train-Bus Collision to Avoid Adding Pain to Bereaved Families

Politic17 May 2026 11:30 GMT+7

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Government Appeals to Stop Sharing Images of Victims and Injured in Train-Bus Collision to Avoid Adding Pain to Bereaved Families

The government requests cooperation to stop publishing or forwarding images of the deceased and injured from the train-bus collision, as well as from other accidents and traumatic incidents, fearing it will further hurt the bereaved families and those involved, causing psychological wounds.


17 May 2026 GMT+7 Ms. Ploytale Laksameesangchan, Deputy Spokesperson of the Office of the Prime Minister, stated that the government expresses condolences to the families of the deceased and those injured in the accident involving a BMTA bus colliding with a train near Makkasan intersection. She emphasized that all relevant agencies are urgently providing full assistance to the victims' families and care for the injured.

At the same time, the government requests the public to refrain from publishing or sharing images of the injured, deceased, and violent scenes from accidents or traumatic events on social media. It was emphasized that sharing such images, even if intended to inform or warn, can severely impact the mental health of families, relatives of the deceased, and those involved, especially during a time when everyone is still in shock and mourning.

"Violent images can cause repeated psychological wounds or trigger stress, sadness, fear, and trauma again, affecting the directly involved, their relatives, children, youth, and the general public who view these images online. Additionally, publishing images showing the faces, bodies, or identifying information of the deceased or injured infringes on personal rights and the human dignity of the victims and their families," she said.

Ms. Ploytale further stated that the government urges people to exercise discretion before posting or sharing information. If news coverage is necessary, appropriate images should be used, such as wide shots, atmospheric views, or images with blurred faces and personal details. It is important to avoid including details that may cause excessive distress. Information that should be shared more includes useful societal information such as emergency contact numbers, assistance for affected individuals, blood donation drives, or accurate safety information.

However, if those involved or following the news feel stressed, anxious, or psychologically affected, they can contact the mental health hotline 1323 for counseling available 24 hours a day.