For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails
Sign up to our free breaking news emails
Thai police have reportedly deactivated two more bombs after a large explosion hit Bangkok, amid fears more have been planted around the city.
At least 27 people died in the blast shortly after 7pm local time today at the Erawan shrine, and almost 80 more have been injured.
TheBangkok Post reported that another device was found and safely removed by a bomb disposal team about an hour later.
Officers and emergency services are still at the scene, where witnesses reported bodies covered in sheets and body parts strewn on the ground between burning vehicles.
"We are now looking for another two to three bombs as we have found one suspicious object," national police chief Prawut Thawornsiri told Reuters.
"There could be another explosion, so we have blocked off the crime scene and are asking bystanders to move back."
Bangkok Bombing
Show all 10
Another device was reportedly defused shortly his comments.
Police believe the first bomb may have been attached to a motorbike parked outside the entrance to the shrine area.
"All I can say now is there has been an explosion in central Bangkok involving a motorcycle bomb," deputy national police chief Aek Angsananond said.
The holy site, popular with Hindu and Buddhist worshippers as well as tourists, in the busy Chindlom district.
It is near the Ratchaprasong intersection, lined with shopping centres and a five-star hotel, which has been at the centre of political protests in recent years.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies