The Prime Minister revealed that the cause of the fire at Lat Phrao Beer Hall remains unclear regarding whether the emergency exit door was locked and if the sprinkler system failed to operate. He has requested the Forensic Department to investigate first. He ordered stricter controls on restaurants that have illegally modified their licenses and urged relatives not to worry, assuring that the government will fully cover medical treatment costs for the victims.
At 09:42 on 13 July 2026, at the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration Hall 2, Anutin Charnvirakul, the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, commented on the progress of the fire at the “Lat Phrao Beer Hall” restaurant which occurred late last night. He stated that he visited the site with the Governor of Bangkok, observed the situation and rescue efforts, and noted that approximately 34 survivors were sent for medical treatment across various government and private hospitals. These treatments are already protected under government regulations, so relatives and patients need not worry as the government will ensure the best medical care.
Regarding the issue of the emergency exit door being locked, he declined to detail at this time, requesting that forensic police first conduct a thorough investigation and gather evidence. However, he noted that upon his visit, he observed blocked areas and flames without visible emergency exits. A preliminary review confirmed that the restaurant holds a valid license for food service, permitted to feature live bands until midnight under the law.
Concerning the building structure, the restaurant is located outside the zoning area of Bangkok. The Prime Minister stated that regulations on entertainment venue permits may not fully apply in this case, as the establishment is licensed as a restaurant, not an entertainment venue. If it were an entertainment venue, it would not be allowed to operate at this location.
When asked about the numerous similar restaurants in Bangkok and how the Ministry of Interior plans to enforce stricter regulations and inspections, the Prime Minister responded that local authorities must comply with regulations. He reiterated that this restaurant operates under a food service license, which legally permits music performances but only until midnight. Many aspects must be considered, including the building. Annual inspections occur since, even with a building permit, checks are required when renewing the restaurant license. He trusts forensic police will quickly investigate when the last building inspection took place and how it was conducted.
Regarding criticism that the emergency exit door was locked to prevent customers from leaving without paying, the Prime Minister said the police should investigate and expand their inquiry first. He cautioned against premature speculation while investigations are ongoing but emphasized there will be no leniency if any legal violations are found. On compensation for the injured and deceased, the Prime Minister stressed full medical care and assured that various funds are already in place to provide assistance and compensation for the victims' families.
In response to reports of an increased death toll, the Prime Minister reiterated that the number of deaths at the scene remains at 27. Those sent to hospitals include critical cases receiving intensive treatment. Regarding reports that the restaurant's sprinkler system did not operate, he observed flooding at the site likely caused by firefighting efforts but has not yet inquired about the sprinkler system's functionality. He stated it is the forensic police's responsibility to investigate this further. Fortunately, the fire was extinguished relatively quickly, preserving the building's structural integrity.
When asked about the restaurant's seating arrangements and overcrowding, the Prime Minister replied that this is not an appropriate topic to discuss as the atmosphere was far from favorable.