Train Driver in Bangkok Crash Had No Licence

Fresh details have emerged in the investigation into the deadly Bangkok train-bus collision, with transport officials confirming the train driver involved in the crash did not hold a valid operating licence issued by the Department of Rail Transport.

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The revelation follows the May 16 collision between train service 2126 running from Laem Chabang to Bang Sue Junction and a Bangkok Mass Transit Authority bus at the Asok-Din Daeng railway crossing near Makkasan station. The crash killed eight people and injured more than 30 others after a fire broke out involving the bus, nearby vehicles and motorcycles.

Officials had already confirmed that the train driver, Mr Sayomporn Sonkul, tested positive in an initial drug screening following the crash. On May 18, Department of Rail Transport director-general Pichet Kunadhamraks said police had informed the department about the positive test result.

Pichet also disclosed that Mr Sayomporn had not yet received an official rail operator licence from the Department of Rail Transport despite working as a train driver. Authorities have now ordered his immediate suspension and launched a serious disciplinary investigation, into all involved.

The State Railway of Thailand has also been instructed to suspend staff connected to the incident, including the railway crossing barrier operator, while criminal proceedings continue. Investigators are also examining whether supervisors allowed a driver suspected of drug use to continue operating trains responsible for passenger and public safety.

In response to the crash, the Department of Rail Transport has issued an urgent order requiring all rail operators to conduct mandatory drug and alcohol screening before every shift. The checks will apply to train drivers, rail control staff, crossing gate operators and other ground personnel involved in operational safety under a “zero tolerance” policy.

Pichet said the measures were necessary to restore public confidence in Thailand’s rail system and ensure maximum safety standards. He cited Section 90 of the Rail Transport Act 2025, which grants inspectors authority to test rail personnel suspected of being under the influence of alcohol, narcotics or psychotropic substances.

Amarin reported that authorities are continuing their wider investigation into the collision, including operational procedures, staff responsibilities and railway safety systems at the crossing where the crash occurred.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 18 May 2026