Bangkok: An elder brother has made merit after discovering the body of his younger brother in the collapsed State Audit Office building. He had vowed to fulfill certain promises if his brother's body was found, and has now followed through on those commitments. He further revealed plans to offer a 9-meter garland if the bodies of his sister-in-law and remaining workers are found, expressing gratitude towards "Kong Huai Rai" and "Gun Jom Phalang".
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Thurian Phuengrod, along with his sister-in-law and four other workers, had gone to work inside the State Audit Office building. They performed rituals, lighting incense sticks, and sought assistance from sacred entities to help rescue workers locate all bodies by April 2. Subsequently, the Police General Hospital's Forensic Institute confirmed the discovery of his brother's body through DNA matching.
Mr. Thurian has honored his vow by offering nine garlands and fruits to a Brahma statue near the incident site. He had prayed for the discovery of his brother and sister-in-law by April 2, which was fulfilled with the finding of his brother's body. He remains committed to fulfilling further promises should the other bodies be discovered, including a 9-meter garland offering.
There remains a glimmer of hope that his sister-in-law might still show signs of life, though the family is mentally prepared for any outcome, particularly his nephew, who is deeply affected by the loss of their family pillar. The family extends gratitude to media, Ruam Katanyu rescue workers, and individuals like Mr. Kan Chom Phalang and Kong Huai Rai for their support.
Mr. Thurian has decided not to repatriate his younger brother's body for religious rituals in their hometown of Phichit Province until his sister-in-law's body is also found, honoring their inseparable bond over the past 18 years. He emphasized that he has not and will not solicit donations using his brother and sister-in-law's names.