SINGAPORE, Aug 18 — Some Singaporeans are injured in a bomb explosion in the heart of Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, last night, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).

In a statement in response to media queries on the explosion in central Bangkok, the MFA Spokesman said: “”We have learnt that some Singaporeans were injured.

“Our embassy staff are rendering the necessary consular assistance to the affected Singaporeans. They are also in contact with the Thai authorities to check if there are any more Singaporeans affected by the bomb blast. 

“MFA is also contacting registered Singaporeans based in Bangkok.”

It was reported that at least 19 people were killed and more than 120 people were injured in the incident that took place last night near the Erawan Shrine in the heart of Thailand’s capital city.

The Erawan Shrine is a popular tourist spot and foreigners, including Chinese, were among the casualties

The spokesman said: “Singapore strongly condemns the bomb blast in Bangkok and is saddened by the loss of innocent lives. We convey our condolences to the families of the victims and hope the injured will have a speedy recovery”.

It said MFA and the Embassy of the Republic of Singapore in Bangkok were monitoring developments closely, and urged Singaporeans in Bangkok to take the necessary safety precautions, including to avoid the vicinity of the explosion and to monitor the local news closely.

They should contact the Singapore Embassy at +66 81 844-3580 or singemb_bkk@mfa.sg if they require any urgent assistance.

Alternatively, they may contact the 24-hour MFA Duty Office at +65 6379 8800 / 8855 or mfa_duty_officer@mfa.gov.sg.

Singaporeans who are in or visiting Bangkok are advised to register with the Singapore Embassy at http://eregister.mfa.gov.sg/.  — Bernama