The Rights Protection Department issued a statement after public questions arose asking, "Why does the state use taxpayers' money to compensate victims of the Lat Phrao brewery fire?" emphasizing this as a legal right to compensation.
On 17 July 2026, the Rights and Liberties Protection Department of the Ministry of Justice released a statement clarifying public concerns. "Regarding the fire disaster at the Lat Phrao brewery"
The statement noted that following the tragic fire at a restaurant, the "Brewery at Lat Phrao" on 12 July 2026, which has so far resulted in a total of 33 deaths and numerous injuries, as reported in the news.
Amid this loss, society has raised questions and debated "Why must the state use taxpayers' money to compensate the victims?"
The Rights and Liberties Protection Department explained that the first key principle is that when a wrongful act causes harm, the wrongdoer must compensate the damage through the justice system fairly and appropriately to the victims and their families, without exception. The second principle concerns the state's duty to protect the safety and welfare of its citizens, as stated in the constitution, which guarantees that those harmed by violations of rights or criminal acts by others have the right to receive compensation or assistance from the state as prescribed by law.
Accordingly, the Rights and Liberties Protection Department of the Ministry of Justice is responsible under the Victim Compensation and Reimbursement to Defendants in Criminal Cases Act B.E. 2544 (and its amendment No. 2, B.E. 2559) to protect the fundamental rights of "crime victims" who are not involved in the incident.
Affected individuals and their families can seek legal and human rights assistance at the provincial justice office where the incident occurred or contact the Justice Hotline at 1111 press 77, which is free and available 24 hours.
