CHIANG RAI – On Sunday, Police at Mae Sai station in Chiang Rai received a report about a suspicious sack inside a van parked near a shopping mall in Mae Sai Municipality, only about 200 metres from the police station.
Officers immediately informed their superiors. Later, Pol. Col. Technique Jansee (Mae Sai Police Chief) assigned Pol. Lt. Col. Ronakrit Rahatsuwan (Inspector) to coordinate with local authorities and Task Force Pha Muang soldiers to check the scene.
At the location, they found a white Toyota van. Initial questions revealed the van had been broken down and left by its owner for about six months, since the major flood. When the back door was opened, several feed sacks were stacked inside.
Looking inside, officers found objects suspected to be explosives, along with red-and-white wires believed to be electric detonators. For safety, officers cordoned off the area and told people to keep clear within a 100-metre radius from the van. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team was then called in.
At about 9:30 p.m., EOD officers arrived and carefully checked and secured the scene. They found 119 sticks of Superpower 90 plastic high explosives, as well as 226 electric detonators.
Early investigations suggest these explosives may have been intended for use in mines in Shan State, Myanmar, which has several mining operations for manganese, gold, and rare earth minerals. Officials are continuing to investigate who owns the explosives and why they were left in the van at that location.
Superpower 90 is a cap-sensitive emulsion explosive designed for superior rock-crushing capability in tunnel blasting, as well as underground and aboveground blasting operations.
It does not contain highly dangerous chemicals like TNT or nitroglycerin, making it safer compared to traditional explosives. It is sensitized through chemical gassing, microspheres, or a combination of both, resulting in a firm, putty-like consistency.
Only individuals with proper training, experience, and authority should handle this product to prevent personal injuries or fatal accidents. It should be stored in approved magazines under moderate temperatures and dry conditions, with a maximum shelf life of 24 months.
Potential reactions with pyritic materials and the need for adequate ventilation before re-entry are critical safety considerations
