PM expects all bodies to be recovered today

BANGKOK: -- Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra disclosed he expected relief officials would manage to recover all bodies of victims of the Sunday’s massive tidal wave attack today, except those remaining unaccounted for.

Speaking before attending the cabinet meeting this morning, he conceded relief officials had experienced great difficulties finding and helping victims because of the equipment shortage.

The transfer of the victims from various spots in islands to hospital was also in trouble. Helicopters might be needed for the transfer. However, he believed the rescue operation would be put in place soon.

“What is terrible is that some rescue officials dare not enter in the spots following warnings of aftershocks. Some wounded people run to hills and refuse to come down for medical treatment because they remain frightened.

“It’s also difficult to find victims in some spots because communications and transportation routes are cut off.”

The premier said the rescue operation received full cooperation although it was rather in haste. It is expected the rescue officials would be able to recover all bodies of the victims today, except those who remained unaccounted for.

Most of the deaths from the natural disaster are foreign tourists because it is now a high season of tourism. Most visited with their family members.

Mr. Thaksin said he had instructed the Foreign Ministry and Tourism Authority of Thailand to fully coordinate with the embassies in looking after foreign tourists.

Should they want to return home, the government was ready to pay all costs to facilitate their travel.

Asked whether the government would seek international assistance, he said: “we are glad to receive assistance from any countries if they offer to help. However, we won’t seek help. We will try to help ourselves to the utmost first.”

The premier said he shared the common views for a need of international cooperation in the establishment of the early warning system. However, he did not have any knowledge on the matter at all.

--TNA 2004-12-28

BANGKOK: -- Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra disclosed he expected relief officials would manage to recover all bodies of victims of the Sunday’s massive tidal wave attack today, except those remaining unaccounted for.

Why does he come out with a statement like this.They will be finding bodies for days if not weeks.

"BANGKOK: -- Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra disclosed he expected relief officials would manage to recover all bodies of victims of the Sunday’s massive tidal wave attack today, except those remaining unaccounted for."

..this is a slightly tautological statement.