A bomb attack on the house of Samran Rodphet, a key member of the anti-government People's Democratic Reform Committee, is thought to have been politically motivated.
Forensic experts examine the bomb blast site at the house of Samran Rodphet in Bangkok’s Kannayao district. PATTANAPONG HIRUNARD
The house of Samran, a well-known television moderator, at Khu Bon Soi 6 in Kannayao district, was attacked about 3am yesterday. Nobody was injured.
The explosion left a hole 20cm wide and 3cm deep. Seven windows of the house and a front light were shattered. A Mitsubishi car was slightly damaged.
Police found a pull ring and pieces of explosive and metal scattered over the area.
Pol Col Khamthon Ouicharoen, commander of the explosive ordnance disposal unit, said the explosive device used in the attack was an M67 grenade.
This type of grenade, made in the US, was designed for military and police use.
He said such a grenade had never been used during the PDRC rally before. Evidence found at the scene showed the grenade might have been thrown from somewhere in front of the house before it landed near a house wall.
At the time of the attack, Mrs Wandee Rodphet, 53, Samran's wife and their maid were inside the house. They heard the sound of the explosion, but did not go out to investigate.
The force of the explosion also damaged the office of Success Production House Co, located nearby.
Mr Samran has not returned to his home for more than one month since the demonstration began.
Police believe the attack was linked to the political situation. They intend to examine footage from closed circuit cameras in the area.
Mr Samran, 58, used to serve as spokesman of the People's Alliance for Democracy that held street protests against ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra.
He has been assigned to jointly supervise the Victory Monument rally stage.