Firefighters extinguished a blaze at a house converted into a cannabis cultivation facility in Pattaya on the morning of 25 September. No injuries or deaths were reported, but all cannabis plants inside were damaged by the fire.
The fire broke out at Thepprasit Village, Pattaya City, Chon Buri. Pattaya's land disaster relief radio centre sent rescue volunteers, firefighters and police to the address after receiving reports of a house fire.
Heavy rain was falling as residents gathered outside to follow the operation. Fire crews used water hose-lines to tackle flames inside the property, where thick smoke and a strong smell spread through the surrounding area.
It took about 30 minutes to bring the fire under control.
Cannabis plants destroyed
An inspection found that the house had been adapted for cannabis cultivation. The plants and growing equipment were damaged by heat and fire, although the financial loss has not yet been assessed.
A 47-year-old employee, identified as Ms Nok, who looked after the cultivation site, told officers that its owner was Mr Moxito, 42, a Bolivian national.
She said she saw sparks coming from an electrical control box shortly before an explosion was heard and the fire spread rapidly. Neighbours also reported hearing an explosion and seeing large amounts of smoke coming from the house before alerting emergency services.
A 60-year-old neighbour, Ms Auan, said the property had operated as a cannabis growing facility for years and was owned by a foreigner. She said she feared the fire could spread to nearby homes and called for help.
Police await forensic results
Pattaya City Police recorded the scene and initially believe an electrical short circuit may have started the blaze before it spread to the cannabis plants.
Pictures courtesy of Daily News
However, forensic officers inspected the property and will establish the cause formally. Police have not yet been able to put a value on the damage.
Smoke reportedly affected responders
A reporter at the scene said firefighters, rescue personnel, police and local residents who inhaled smoke from the burning cannabis plants experienced lingering effects. Some were described as appearing dazed, with watery eyes and smiles, while others complained of headaches and moved away from the area.
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26 September 2026
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