Fire breaks out at former Ming Dih Chemical factory in Samut Prakan

A fire broke out at the former Ming Dih Chemical factory in Bang Phli, Samut Prakan, on August 25, producing thick black smoke. Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control within approximately 20 minutes. No injuries or deaths were reported in this incident.

Authorities suspect the fire was caused by individuals illegally entering the site at night to cut up stainless-steel tanks for scrap metal. Sparks from the cutting process likely ignited leftover foam and foam pellets stored at the site. Local officials noted that such thefts and subsequent fires have become a recurring issue at the location.

The site is the location of a major explosion and fire in July 2021, which killed one firefighter and injured dozens of people. Following this latest incident, local residents have called on authorities and factory operators to increase security and ensure the proper removal and disposal of remaining hazardous chemicals and raw materials to prevent another large-scale disaster.