Bangkok: The Marine Department has initiated an investigation into a speedboat explosion at Coco Pier in Phuket, which resulted in five injuries and one fatality. The department has set a 7-day deadline to determine the cause of the incident, which occurred during engine repairs.

According to Thai News Agency, the explosion and subsequent fire happened on April 6, 2026, at approximately 11:00 AM, involving a passenger speedboat named "Tequila" with the registration number 685101413. The vessel, with a gross tonnage of 11.18 tons, had an expired operating license and passenger insurance policy. The incident occurred while maintenance was being performed on the engine at Coco Pier in Wichit Subdistrict, Mueang District, Phuket Province.

The explosion resulted in injuries to six individuals, including crew members and maintenance workers. Five of the injured have been hospitalized, with injuries ranging from minor to critical. The critically injured were taken to Dibuk Hospital and Vachira Phuket Hospital, while another was treated at Phuket Provincial Administrative Organization Hospital. Sadly, the missing male guide, who was deceased, was later found on the boat.

Director-General of the Marine Department, Mr. Kritphet Chaiyachue, noted that the boat's expired license was due to ongoing repairs. He has tasked the Phuket Port Authority with forming a committee to investigate and report their findings within the stipulated 7-day period. The investigation aims to uncover the facts surrounding the explosion and implement preventative measures to avert such incidents in the future.