BANGKOK: Thai authorities today launched a massive hunt for a man captured in CCTV footage who is suspected of setting off the explosion inside Bangkok's hugely popular Lord Brahma temple that killed at least 20 people in the country's "worst ever attack".
Bangkok was rattled again today when an explosive device was hurled at ferry pier in Bangkok, a day after yesterday's bombing. The bomb was thrown at Bangkok's Sathorn pier but it caused no injuries or damage as it bounced into the water and exploded there.
Thai authorities have launched a hunt for a male "suspect" in connection with yesterday's bombing in which 20 people, including 11 foreigners, were killed and 123 others injured.
Thai Junta leader Prayut Chan-O-Cha today described the bombing as the "worst ever attack" on Thailand, as he gave the first indications of who officials believed were responsible.
"Today there is a suspect...we are looking for this guy," Prayut told reporters.
He said the man was seen on closed circuit television at the blast site.
The man wearing a yellow t-shirt and carrying a backpack is suspected to be the bomber, media reports said.
Prime Minister Prayut also assured all foreigners in Thailand of their safety.
"The government will protect lives and properties of all foreign expats, tourists in the Kingdom," Gen Prayut said in a TV address.
11 foreigners were killed in the attack which included Five Chinese, an Indonesian, four Malaysians and one Singaporean.
Prayut also said he believed Facebook messages apparently warning of danger to Bangkok ahead of the attack came from an "anti-government group" based in Thailand's northeast.
"We are looking for them now, some of them are in Isaan (northeastern Thailand)," he said.
The bomb was placed inside the compound of the popular Erawan Brahma temple thronged throughout the day by Thais and foreigners. It is a favourite tourist stop for the Chinese, Taiwanese and people from Hong Kong.
The government has also announced compensation for those injured and for the relatives of the dead.
Security has been tightened across the country following the deadly blast.
In Chon Buri, provincial police chief Nitipong Niemnoi inspected security at tourist attractions, including Walking Street in South Pattaya, the hub of nightlife entertainment.
Police checkpoints have been set up across the beach city to ensure the safety of residents and visitors.