At approximately 7:00pm on Monday 17 August, a large explosion occurred in downtown Bangkok, near the Erawan Shrine in the Chidlom district. There were a number of deaths and injuries from the explosion, which was reportedly caused by a bomb. A further incident occurred on 18 August, when an explosive device detonated in the water by the Saphan Taksin pier, close to the main tourist ferry terminal in Bangkok. There were no injuries resulting from this second incident.
New Zealanders in Bangkok are advised to exercise heightened vigilance at this time, monitor the media for updates and adhere to the instructions of local authorities. Particular care should be taken in public and commercial areas, including landmark places known to be frequented by expatriates or foreign tourists, public transport facilities, hotels, bars, tourist resorts, shopping areas and places of worship.