Security level raised at Thailand’s main Suvarnabhumi Airport

BANGKOK, August 18 (TNA) - Thailand’s main Suvarnabhumi International Airport has stepped up its security to level 3, following Bangkok's blasts, killing at least 20 people and injuring about 120 others so far. Phet Chancharoen, Deputy Director of Suvarnabhumi International Airport, told journalists on Tuesday that the intensified security measures are in place to boost confidence among international passengers, following a bomb attack in front of the wellknown Brahmin Shrine standing next to the Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok Hotel at the Ratchaprasong Intersection in the heart of the capital on Monday night. Another bomb blast was reported at Bangkok’s Sathorn Pier on Tuesday afternoon, but there were no casualties or damage reported, as an explosive was thrown from the Sathorn Bridge and dropped into the Chao Phraya River and exploded in the water, instead of a parking terminal of pickup truck taxis running in the area. At Suvarnabhumi Airport's terminals, heightened security checks have been conducted by both security officers and sleuths (K9), while both checked-in and hand baggage checks have been intensified. The issuance of all types of terminal building access cards has been temporarily suspended for safety reasons. Tourist police at the Suvarnabhumi International Airport have been also coordinating with Chinese tour operators and providing assistance and information to Chinese tourists who planned to stay at hotels in sensitive areas. Meanwhile, the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced the cancellation of visa fees for family members of the injured and dead victims who are coming to Thailand. (TNA)