PHUKET: A 4-million-baht speedboat caught fire and exploded on Saturday morning, injuring four crew members. It was not carrying any tourists at the time.
The incident happened around 9am in Ao Yamu Bay in tambon Pa Khlok of Thalang district. Firefighters rushed to the scene but were unable to reach the boat moored about 150 metres off the coast.
Pa Khlok mayor Panya Sampaorat said at the scene that explosions continued as flames consumed the boat.
The boat's captain and three crew members managed to flee the fire. Three of them suffered burns and the other had a leg injury. Rescue workers sent them to Thalang Hospital.
The speedboat capable of carrying about 30 passengers was waiting for customers at the time of the incident. Normally it shuttles between Phuket and nearby islands.
Injured crew members are rescued from the speedboat fire. (Photo by Achadtaya Chuenniran)