15 February 2012
Thai police have linked three Iranian men to the explosions in Bangkok yesterday afternoon. The first explosion, said to be a bomb, took place in a house located on Sukhumvit Soi 71 to the east of Ekamai in Bangkok. Thai police have said the house was being rented by three Iranian men. Two of the men managed to escape the explosion which caused severe damage to the house. The third man was apparently wounded and after leaving the scene of the explosion tried to wave down a passing taxi. The taxi did not stop and the suspect then threw a grenade at the taxi. The same man then attempted to throw another grenade at a police car, but missed and lost both of his legs when the grenade exploded
In recent months, Israel has warned Thailand that Israeli interests and citizens in Thailand are under an increased threat of attack. Israel has already pointed the finger at Iran and Lebanon’s Hezbollah for the Bangkok incidents which came a day after Israeli embassy staff in India and Georgia were targeted. As investigations continue, no clear link between the events has yet been established. Israeli Defence Minister, Ehud Barak is currently in Singapore but was in Thailand over the weekend. Thai police have arrested two men in connection with the Bangkok explosions but are still seeking another two suspects.
