Thailand investigating why 'Chinese-built' skyscraper meant to withstand earthquakes collapsed

Investigations are underway to find out why a "Chinese-constructed" State Audit Office building in Thailand collapsed after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit neighbouring Myanmar on Mar. 28.

According to Bangkok Post, Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul "demanded" findings on why the building collapsed even though it was designed to withstand earthquakes.

Four Chinese workers are also being questioned for snatching documents from the area.

The building had been contracted to a consortium of Italian-Thai Development Public Limited Company and China Railway No.10 Engineering Group.

Bangkok Post also reported Anutin stating that "more than 95 per cent" of buildings withstood the earthquake, and questioning why this one fell.

The Nation reported that Anutin had set up a committee to investigate the case as well as rumours of men in black carrying documents and leaving the scene.

Regardless of the veracity of the rumours, Anutin said the building's blueprints and contract were still with the State Audit Office, and expected investigations to conclude in a week.

According to The Nation, the investigation will be focused on the building's "designer, supervisor, and contractor".

The Guardian reported that as of May 30, 11 have been reported dead while over 70 remain unaccounted for after the collapse of the 30-storey tower.

Image from Facebook and Khaosod