8 Dead in Bangkok Train-Bus Collision; Train Driver Was Unlicensed and Tested Positive for Drugs

(CNA, Bangkok, 18th, by reporter Li Tsung-hsien) In a train-bus collision in Bangkok on the 16th that left 8 dead and 32 injured, the Department of Rail Transport (DRT), citing a police report, stated that the train driver's urine test was positive, indicating drug use, and it was also discovered that the driver did not hold a train operator's license. A Thai train collided with a bus in Bangkok's urban area on the 16th, hitting several cars and motorcycles before catching fire, resulting in 8 deaths and 32 injuries. Pichet Kunadhamraks, Director-General of Thailand's Department of Rail Transport (DRT), stated last night that according to a police report, the driver of the train that hit the bus, Sayomporn Suankul, tested positive for drugs. Furthermore, Pichet pointed out that Sayomporn did not possess a train operator's license issued by the DRT. The Bangkok Post reported today that Pichet has ordered alcohol and drug testing for all employees involved in train operations and has also requested an investigation into the supervisor who allowed this driver to operate the train. Sayomporn has been suspended and disciplined for a serious breach of conduct, and will also face legal charges. Bangkok Police Chief Siam Boonsom stated that both the train driver and the bus driver who was stopped at the level crossing have been charged with reckless driving causing death. Additionally, Thairath reported today that before the train collided with the bus, driver Sayomporn was not in the driver's cabin and was not wearing a uniform. After the incident, when he went to the police station for questioning, he had deliberately changed his hairstyle. The report mentioned that some surveillance footage shows Sayomporn was not seated in the driver's cabin before the accident. Police have summoned the train technician who worked on the same train as Sayomporn for questioning. (Editor: Tang Sheng-yang) 1150518