A fire tore through an indoor cannabis-growing facility in Bang Bo district, Samut Prakan, early on 3 August, causing damage estimated at more than 80 per cent. All 11 employees working at the site escaped safely, with no injuries reported. The large warehouse in Bang Phriang subdistrict was described as a Chinese-owned, licensed enclosed cannabis cultivation factory, reportedly operating for export to China. Police are examining the site in detail to verify the claims surrounding its operations. The Provincial Emergency Medical Command Centre in Samut Prakan received the fire report at about 1am. Fire engines were sent from Bang Bo municipality, Khlong Dan Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, Bang Sao Thong municipality and Bang Phriang municipality, along with volunteers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation. Fire brought under control in 30 minutes The warehouse occupies roughly four rai of land and carries a sign identifying it as a plant cultivation centre. Firefighters found flames burning at several points inside the building, with most of the interior affected. Petty Officer First Class Boonsang Chommalee, 53, head of the Bang Phriang Subdistrict Administrative Organisation fire department, said crews encountered four or five areas of fire. Foam was used to tackle the blaze, which was brought under control in around 50 minutes. The facility used extensive air-conditioning to maintain cool temperatures for indoor growing. Boonsang said the initial assessment was that an electrical short circuit in a control cabinet, possibly linked to the heavy use of air conditioners, caused an explosion and subsequent fire. He said the interior structure was largely made of aluminium frames and most collapsed during the fire. Workers escape as damage mounts The 11 employees on duty at the time fled the warehouse before the fire could trap anyone inside. Officials reported no casualties. Investigators found coconut husk material inside, consistent with plant cultivation, although the fire chief said initially he could not confirm what was being grown there. Further information later identified the site as an enclosed cannabis-growing operation. Police to examine operation and cause The owner was reported to be Chinese and to hold the required licence for the cultivation facility. However, police will need to establish whether the operation and its stated export arrangements were as claimed. The precise cause of the blaze remains subject to the official investigation. Initial damage was put at more than 80 per cent of the facility. Pictures courtesy of Amarin Join the discussion? 4 August 2026
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