At least six individuals of Vietnamese origin were discovered deceased in a suite at the luxurious Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok hotel, as reported by Thai police.
Some of the deceased were Vietnamese-Americans, as confirmed by government sources.
Initially, local media speculated about a shooting incident at the five-star hotel, but police later dismissed these claims, stating there was no evidence of gunfire.
Recent reports from local media indicate that police are considering the possibility that the victims were poisoned, although this has not been officially confirmed, and the exact cause of death remains unknown.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who visited the scene, has ordered a thorough investigation into the deaths to safeguard Thailand’s reputation and tourism industry.
Police suspect the individuals may have been deceased for approximately 24 hours, and autopsies will be conducted to ascertain whether the cause of death could be linked to something they consumed.
Authorities also mentioned the possibility of a seventh Vietnamese individual involved, though their whereabouts are currently unknown.
Earlier statements from the Thai Public Broadcasting Service quoted police indicating that among the deceased were three women and three men.
Police Major General Thiradech Thamsuthee informed the broadcaster that initial findings from the investigation suggested the victims might have been poisoned.
“There were no signs of struggle. Tea and coffee cups were found to have been used,” PBS reported.
Police were called to the hotel at around 17:30 local time after receiving a phone call from hotel staff.