At least 30 people have been killed in a mass shooting at a children’s day care centre in Thailand.

The victims include children and adults, authorities said, adding that the gunman was an ex-police officer and a manhunt is under way.

However, local media reports suggested the gunman had killed himself, as well as his wife and child, shortly after fleeing the scene.

He was fired from the police force last year for failing a drugs test and was due to go on trial in court tomorrow, according to Thai media reports.

The suspect was last seen driving a white Toyota pick-up truck with Bangkok number plates.

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha alerted all agencies to take action, a government spokesperson said.

The shooting took place in Na Klang district in the northeastern province of Nong Bua Lamphu.