Bangkok police have submitted seven investigation files to prosecutors seeking charges against Suwicha Sailabat, 45, owner of the Na Lat Phrao premises, over the deadly fire at the entertainment venue.
The blaze, which killed 37 people, including those who later died while receiving hospital treatment, and left 77 people with burn injuries.
Police said Mr Suwicha is being pursued both personally and in connection with the business entity that owned the venue. He has not yet been questioned because he remains in intensive care at Paolo Kaset Hospital.
Police cite electrical alterations and blocked exits
At a press briefing at Phahonyothin Police Station at 1pm on 7 August, Pol Maj Gen Kiatkul Sonthanee, commander of Metropolitan Police Division 2, said investigators had sent their findings and recommendations to prosecutors.
Col Issara Na Phatthalung, the lead investigator, said police had taken statements from 211 people, including venue staff, customers, relatives of those who died, specialists and forensic officers.
Investigators concluded that the fire began with an electrical short circuit following alterations to the electrical system. Police said the resulting sparks spread to soundproofing materials.
They also found that the venue layout made escape difficult. Numerous tables were placed inside, while doors intended as fire exits had items placed in front of them, were locked, or otherwise did not meet legal requirements, according to police.
Charges include deaths, injuries and unlicensed operation
Police said the case concerns five major allegations: negligence causing a fire, punishable by up to seven years in prison and a fine of up to 140,000 baht; negligence causing death, carrying up to 10 years and a 200,000-baht fine; causing serious injury through negligence, with up to three years and a 60,000-baht fine; negligence causing bodily or mental harm, carrying up to one month and a 10,000-baht fine; and property damage.
The investigation also alleges that the venue was operating as an entertainment establishment without permission from the authorities.
Pol Maj Gen Kiatkul said the business had four or five partners, but investigators had found no evidence that they took part in its management. The seven case files were therefore submitted to prosecutors for consideration against Mr Suwicha.
The full investigation report is expected to be fully completed and released, once the charges against the owner are reviewed and accepted by prosecutors.
Pictures courtesy of Daily News
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8 August 2026
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