Buriram Expats

Buriram Province - General Category => Thailand News clippings => Topic started by: Admin on May 13, 2010, 10:58:29 PM

Title: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 13, 2010, 10:58:29 PM

Just watched on TV now.  exclaim

The government annnounce on many provinces as under state of emergency. !!

Closest area to buriram is NAKHON RATCHASIMA (KORAT).

Not recommended to go Bangkok area until things get clear...

13MAY10 THAILAND ; Hot News at 9 PM ; TV Thai ; Announcement of the Directed Center for Disentangling an Emergency Situations Closed Several Roads around the... (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqsm7glsyOo#)

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: nookiebear on May 14, 2010, 07:31:45 AM

Current News seems to be suppressed

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 14, 2010, 01:54:03 PM

Bangkok Skytrains run limited stops 
Bangkok Post: 14 May 2010
2 subway stations closed Friday

* Published: 14/05/2010 at 08:41 AM


Two subway stations -- Silom and Lumpini -- are closed on Friday, BMCL said in the morning.

Trains operate as normal -- from 6am until midnight -- at all other stations, it said.

The closing of the two stations came after violence erupted in Bangkok on Thursday night, which left one red-shirt protester dead and several injured.

-----------


Skytrains stopping at 9 stations only

* Published: 14/05/2010 at 07:48 AM


Bangkok Mass Transit System (BTS) announced that skytrains are stopping at only nine stations, with no service in the centre of the city, on Friday following fresh violence in Bangkok.

On BTS Silom line, there are five stations that remain open. They are Chong Nonsi, Surasak, Saphan Taksin, Krung Thonburi and Wong Wian Yai.

On BTS Sukhumvit line, skytrains run from Mor Chit to Ratchathewi and back to Mor Chit, and from On Nut to Asok and back to On Nut.

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 14, 2010, 01:55:23 PM

Red-shirts reject any reconciliation attempt 
: 14 May 2010
Red-shirts Turn down Reconciliation
TAN NEWS UPDATE  

The red-shirt group held a press conference, turning down any attempts at reconciling with the government.

The group asked the prime minister how many bodies he wants to see and claimed the military is behind the shooting of Army Specialist Major General Khattiya Sawasdipol or Seh Daeng.

The group will come up with retaliatory measures this evening.

-----------

BREAKING: Red-shirts Retaliate by Torching Bus
UPDATE : 14 May 2010

The red-shirt group has retaliated against officers by torching a bus of the National Police Office on Wireless Road and firing homemade rockets at soldiers.
 

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 14, 2010, 04:15:24 PM

BBC Update!

Red Shirt Protesters Have Sealed Off Bangkok City Center! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XBqq5EOwvoM#)

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 14, 2010, 08:08:18 PM

Red leader warns of tragedy, up demands 
The Nation: 14 May 2010
Natthawut warns big tragedy will happen Friday night
The Nation (approx 5:40 pm)

Natthawut Saikua, a red-shirt leader, Friday demanded Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva to dissolve the House immediately and pull out troops or a big tragedy will happen to the country at night.

"If the prime minister does not order ceasefire, tonight will likely see a big tragedy. It is likely that Thai people will be forever feel pain in their heart because of what will happen tonight," Natthawut said.

He said the prime minister must dissolve the House and stop using violence against the protesters.

He said he did not mean the red-shirt protesters would use violence but confusion could prevail at night.

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 15, 2010, 12:21:06 PM

Bangkok Skytrain closed Saturday 
The Nation: 15 May 2010
BTS halts services Saturday

The Bangkok Transit System announced that its skytrain services on both routes will be completely halted for Saturday on safety concern.

For more information, please contact 0-2617-7300 ext 1834, 1842.

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 15, 2010, 12:22:38 PM

Business leaders plead for order 
Bangkok Post: 15 May 2010
Business leaders plead for order
Foreigners losing confidence fast

Business leaders have reiterated their calls for the government to urgently restore law and order after clashes between red-shirt protesters and security officers yesterday turned central Bangkok into a virtual war zone.

"The government, the army and security officers have to do something now to restore law and order. You cannot let people go around shooting and blocking roads," said Nandor von der Luehe, president of the Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce in Thailand.

"The way foreigners are looking at Thailand is very negative. How can you have confidence in the country if you cannot come to work because the office is closed because of the political conflicts?"

Mr von der Luehe said it was a pity that the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship had spurned the reconciliation offer from Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva.

"The PM has tried political means to reconcile with the protesters but it takes all sides to work together to achieve reconciliation," he said. "[Nonetheless] we are still hopeful that they can find the solution."

The Australian-Thai Chamber of Commerce issued a statement saying said peace must be restored soon.

"Extended protests and violence in the middle of a major city such as Bangkok are sending a message to the international community that the rule of law is not working in Thailand and makes investors less confident," said chamber president Andrew Durieux.

"With each additional death and injury, investor confidence goes down further and the recovery takes longer and will cost more."

Meanwhile, Thailand's neighbours are looking more attractive now, as they can all provide clear rule of law and safety.

"Obviously our members who have business operations or live within or close to the 'Red Zone' are concerned. Many have expressed frustration at the length of the protests, causing confusion for them and their business partners to make business plans," said Mr Durieux.

Dusit Nontanakorn, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, said that prolonged demonstrations, particularly in Bangkok's main shopping and business area, could harm the country to the extent that the overall economy collapses.

Even if the protests could be ended, he said, the government still had a lot of hard work ahead, including economic stimulus efforts and reducing income disparity. "Everybody in the entire social structure must team up together to get out of this trouble before the destruction of the entire country."Thanit Sorat, vice-chairman of the Federation of Thailand Industries, said the damage caused by the anti-government protests would create an opportunity loss for exports by the third quarter at a time when the world economy is on the high side.

"Foreigners will not travel to Thailand to buy or inspect products, which will cause third-quarter exports to decline to 15-16% growth, compared with an average of 20% in the second quarter and 20-30% in the first quarter," he said.

Exports should not be seriously affected if logistics are not disrupted, such as the closing down of roads, airports or shipping routes, he said.

Mr Thanit said foreigners that are coming to invest need to plan two years in advance, but now they might be switching to other countries with lower risk, such as Vietnam and Indonesia.

The tourism sector, which has already been damaged severely by the protests, should take two to three months to recover after the problem has subsided. "However, the damage caused to investment is a long-term one," he said.

Prakit Piriyakiat, deputy governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, said seven countries had now raised travel advisories for Thailand to the highest level, warning their people not to travel to Thailand in light of refreshed political clashes.

They are Saudi Arabia, Spain, the United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong, China, Vietnam, and Taiwan.

http://www.bangkokpost.com/business/economics/37363/business-leaders-plead-for-order (http://www.bangkokpost.com/business/economics/37363/business-leaders-plead-for-order)

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Bigbus on May 15, 2010, 10:06:01 PM

Maybe wrong place to post this....got in Thailand about 8 hours ago...nothing hapenning at the airport....actually I have never seen that little of people pick up the bags...flew in on CX 713 on a B777 and the was 160 seats open...
I guess everything that is happening is down town BKK.

Good to ne back in LOS....

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 15, 2010, 10:57:43 PM

Thank you very much for your report.

Please guys, report us on the way to/from Bangkok AIRPORT - Buriram.
Is the road clear from protestors?
Is it safe to go to the airport these days?
routes to avoid from when driving to Bangkok airport these days? (Suvarnabhumi international airport,not Don Muang airport).

Thank you in advance. sawadi

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 16, 2010, 09:50:13 PM

Bangkok BTS, MRT to remain closed 
Bangkok Post: 16 May 2010
BTS and MRT to remain closed

* Published: 16/05/2010 at 04:02 PM


BTS announced on its website on Sunday that both the Silom and Sukhumvit Skytrain lines will remain closed on Monday over fears for passenger safety.

BTS said it will announce if it will resume services on Tuesday.

The MRT will also suspend underground services on Monday for safety reasons.

It will continue to assess the situation to determine if it can resume services on Tuesday

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: nookiebear on May 17, 2010, 11:17:38 AM

Just been reprted that Seh Daeng has died in hospital this morning at 09.29am

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 17, 2010, 10:49:30 PM

Reds defy deadline, rally continues
Published: 17/05/2010 at 05:37 PM
Bangkok Post: Online news: Local News  

Several thousand of protesters, including women and children, remained at the Ratchaprasong rally site on Monday evening, defying the Centre for the Resolution of Emergency Situation's order that they leave by 3pm or face two-years imprisonment.

There were still about 5,000 protesters at the Ratchaprasong rally site when the 3pm deadline passed, police spokesman Maj-Gen Prawut Thawornsiri said.

Shortly after 2pm, military helicopters dropped leaflets on the encampment, urging the protesters to leave immediately. This angered the protesters, who shot homemade rockets at them.

“Some protesters received distorted information,” government spokesman Panitan Wattanayagorn said on the Thai PBS television network. “We need to communicate with them clearly. It will take time.” There was no word on when the ultimatum extension would end.

According to television reports, a telephone call from Korbsak Sabhavasu, the prime minister's secretary-general, to red-shirt leader Natthawut Saikua prompted the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) leaders to hold an urgent meeting, which began shortly after the 3pm deadline.

On receiving the call from Mr Korbsak, UDD leaders went inside a shipping container office for a meeting.

Acting government spokesman Panitan Wattanayagorn said the Centre for the Resolution of Emergency Situation would hold a meeting at 5pm to discuss steps to be taken to retake the occupied area after the 3pm deadline.

He declined to go into detail, saying only that priority would be given to evacuating children and the elderly from the rally site.

Mr Panitan said Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva was still in high spirits and determined to overcome all problems.

Earlier the day, UDD leader Jatuporn Prompan said red leaders were ready to call protesters back to the Ratchaprasong rally site and begin dialogue with the government if troops stop firing at protesters.

Protest leaders are willing to negotiate with the government without pre-conditions if Mr Abhisit orders the removal of troops stationed around the rally site in Bangkok. The offer was aimed at reducing the loss of lives, he said.

The government would not respond to the UDD's call for talks until the UDD ends the protest rally, government spokesman Panithan Wattanayakorn said.

Mr Panitan said UDD leaders should first show sincerity by ending their rally, ceasing attacks on government security forces and stopping all riotous acts.

If the UDD did this, the government would reactivate its reconciliation plan, he said.

In the morning, two red-shirt guards were arrested in Ratchathewi area with a large quantity of weapons, Metropolitan Police chief Pol Lt-Gen Santhan Chayanont said at a press conference.

Pol Lt-Gen Santhan identified the two as Prasong Manee-in, 55, of Bangkok's Lat Phrao district, and Kowit Yaemprasert, 55, from Pathum Thani province.

They were arrested when Mr Prason was driving a pick-up truck past a military checkpoint in Soi Phaya Nak near the Asia Hotel.

Soldiers found in the truck about 60 items including knives, axes, iron bars, bottle bombs, ping pong bombs, large firecrackers, communications radios, and ID cards of UDD guards.

Mr Prasong said he was formerly a soldier of the 3rd Cavalry Battalion and then a construction worker before joining the UDD rally, where he met Mr Kowit.

He said he was not aware the seized items were loaded onto his truck.

The number of casualties from the clashes between government forces and UDD protesters between May 14 and 17 was now 35 killed and 252 injured, the Emegency Medical Centre or Erawan Centre said in the morning.

The death toll went up because one of the injured, Maj-Gen Khattiya Sawasdipol, better known as Seh Daeng, died from his head wound on Monday morning.

Of the 242 injured, there are six foreigners - one each from Canada, Poland, Burma, Liberia, Italy and New Zealand.

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: nookiebear on May 19, 2010, 08:47:24 AM

Excellent live coverage on Sky News

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 19, 2010, 09:09:31 PM

Thai Red-shirt leaders surrender 
The Nation: 19 May 2010

Pockets of red shirts continue to riot

By 2.15 pm, half an hour after the surrender of the red-shirt leaders on Wednesday, a number of red shirts have continued to riot.

Some red shirts were seen trying to torch Central World shopping mall to express their anger for ending of the Rajprasong rally.

The reds camping out at Klong Toei remain sceptical that their leaders really turned themselves to police. They vowed to continue protesting.

The reds at Samyan continue to wreak havocs by burning tyres and blocking traffic near the Pheu Thai Party on Rama IV Road.

Buses services in Bangkok have been suspended for the afternoon after a number of buses were seized by rioting protesters.
----------------


1.45pm - Reds leaders who do not surrender include Dr Weng Tohjirakarn, Arisamun Pongruengrong, Somporn Attawong and Darunee Kritbunyalai.

1.50pm - Nuttawut tries to calm down reds protesters who try to follow him into the Police Headquarter. He persuaded them to go home and that vehicles are prepared for them at Supachalasai National Stadium.

1.45pm - Reds leaders who do not surrender include Dr weng Tohjirakarn, Arisamun Pongruengrong, Somporn Attawong and Darunee Kritbunyalai.

1.45pm - Other leaders; Nuttawut Saikua, Kwanchai Praipana, Wiputalaeng Wattanapumthai and Nisit Sintupai are taken to the police headquarter.

1.40pm - Jatuporn Prompan is taken to Police headquarter after announcing ending Rajprasong rally.

1.30pm - red shirts leader Jatuporn Prompan and Nattawut Prompan declare ending the rally at Rajprasong rally site.

He claimed he wanted to fight on but he did not want to see any more killings.

"I know everybody is hurt that the rally that we have joined for months have to come to an end," he said.

He said he wanted to stop ongoing killings which saw the red shirts died more.

Nattawut then took the stage and said that the protest ends because he did not want to see more deaths and killings.

He said it was very difficult for him to decide ending the protest.

The red shirts protesters at the rally site welcomed the announcement with boos and jeers.

1.10pm - Wittaya Buranasiri, opposition chief whip, says he is at Maboonkrong Department Store, waiting for police and troops before going to Rajprasong rally site.

He says he would escort red shirts leades who want to surrender from the stage. "The leaders want me to witness and assure their safety when they surrender," he said.

12.20pm  - Red shirts leader Jatuporn Prompan reportedly wants to surrender. Senator Lertrat Rattanawanit says Jatupron expects to surrender with police at 1pm. "If Jatuporn, a Pheu Thai MP, surrenders, he should be given fair treatment."

12.10pm - Nation photographer says he is with troops in Lumpini Park. He sees two bodies of reds guards. One of them has a grenade in his pocket. In a tent in the park believed to be rest area for monks, he saw cartridges and 500 bullets in a box.

12.10pm - Nation photographer says he is with troops in Lumpini Park. He sees two bodies of reds guards. One of them has a grenade in his pocket. In a tent in the park believed to be rest area for monks, he saw cartridges and 500 bullets in a box.

12pm  - An Italian reporter is killed. His name is not yet known. He was shot at his stomach and died before reaching a hospital.

11.55am - Panithan says Arisamun Pongruengrong has escaped from the rally site. He asks the public to report to officers if they see him. Hot line : 02- 551-1515

11.45am - Reds shirts guards urge protesters taking shelters in Pathumwanaram Temple to leave the temple and re-join the rally at Rajprasong rally site.

A TV9 reporter quoted the guards as telling the protesters that situation at the rally site return to normal. Some agree to leave while some others refuse to do so.

10.58am - Arisamun Pongruengrong, a red shirt leader, reportedly escapes from Rajprasong rally site. Police tell the public to help hunt for him or alert police if he is seen.

10.25am  - Convicted ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra calls for the government to re-open a talk with red shirts leaders. He says he has never been involving with the protests.

10.15am  - Troops can re-control Rama IV, Sarasin, Wireless and some parts of Lumpini Park.

9.30am - Center for the Resolution for Emergency Situation announces in a special television programme that troops and security officials are moving into many areas controlled by red shirts in order to stabilise the security and situation. The operations will continue throughout the day.

9.30am - Center for the Resolution for Emergency Situation announces in a special television programme that troops and security officials are moving into many areas controlled by red shirts in order to stabilise the security and situation.

The operations will continue throughout the day.

Government spokesman Panithan Wattanayakorn suggests that people avoid going into the areas where troops are pushing forward. He also asks the public to alert police in case of fires and attacks. He asks the public to stay calm and be confident in the operations.

8.56am - Motorists on Rattanathibet road blow horn and yell at red shirts protesters who use tyres to block the road. The blocking cause heavy traffic congestion.

8.49am - Smoke is still coming into the hospital's buildings. A doctor of the hospital tell Nation Channel that there is no plan to evacuate the patients.

There are about 200 patients in the hospital. The hospital suspends out-patient service since Monday.

7.50am : Exchange of gunfires starts as troops try to move armoured personnel carriers closer to bamboo barricades of red shirts protesters at Saladaeng intersection.

The troops face difficulty moving the vehicles as reds fired at them. Snipers deployed at skywalks and Sala Daeng BTS stations fire to protect the troops who attempt to handle with grenades found along the barricades.

Reporters at Rajprasong rally site are told to move to Police Department Headquarter.

7.45am  - Chulalongkorn Hospital authorities prepare to evacuate patients staying in building close to Henry Dunant Road after red shirts set fire on typres, sending thick smoke into the sky and moving closing to the hospital's building.

7.39am - A group of "men in black" try to break into Klong Toey MRT subway by smashing door and window glass. They reportedly pour petrol in their attempt to set fire.

7.31am - At Sala Daeng intersection, troops are told to fire at protesters only if they fire at the troops. The protesters are seen retreating to Rajprasong area.

7.30am  - Firefighters could control fire at anti-narcotic office at Samliam Din Daeng.

7.10am  - Tear gas is fired at protesters at Sala Daeng Intersection.

7am - As troops move to break the barricades at Sala Daeng Intersection, red shirts leader Nuttawut Saikua tell protesters at Rajprasong rally site to stay calm and prepare for dispersing. The protesters are given cloth to protect them from tear gas.

Red shirt leader Dr weng Tohjirakarn is seen wearing bullet proof vest at the back of the stage.

6am to 7am - red shirts use tyres to set up barricade and block Rattanathibet road in Nonthaburi province. The block worsen the traffic congestion. Police fail to convince them to cancel the blocking.

----------


Gov’t Tells Protesters: DISPERSE NOW!
TAN UPDATE : 19 May 2010

PM Secretary General Korbsak Sapavasu gave an interview to Channel 3 news stating that the protest leaders have the option of stopping this morning’s operations by dispersing their rally immediately. Korbsak insisted that it is the only way out of Thailand’s current political crisis and state of violence.

The PM’s secretary general said that there is no possibility of negotiations at this point because the government is obligated to protect the public from terrorists who are amidst the protesters. He said that negotiations can only start after the red shirt leaders disperse their rally and surrender themselves to authorities.

The red shirt leaders are currently in serious closed door discussions as to how to handle the situation. They say they were taken off guard after yesterday evening’s discussions with representatives from the Senate. It was agreed that the Senate would try and convince the government to withdraw its troops and enter into negotiations.

They were surprised as news of more than 20 armored personnel carriers arrived on Silom Road. Fire trucks were also present as authorities used broadcast trucks to announce that it was time for protesters to leave the area.

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 19, 2010, 09:12:12 PM

Bangkok Burns After Protest Leaders Surrender (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-nJ6ho5TaU#ws)

Bangkok Burns As Red Shirts Surrender (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7JgleCTJiBM#ws)

Thai language:
2010_05_19_Burn Central World Bangkok. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KmSSGXHEOpY#)

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 19, 2010, 09:16:38 PM

character4

Buriram does not have any effect of the problems in Bangkok.
Buriram city and province is quite and businesses are working as usually. 

Update on the road traffic:(19/5/2010)  drivinggear
Buriram-Bangkok suvarnabhumi airport way is open and all the traffic is as normal.
The are few police/army borders to slow down the cars but not more than this.

Good song with pictures from the conflict area in Bangkok:
Listen to the song and hopefully this situation will end up in a better way for all of us and all the Thai people across the country.
PEACE. sawadi

"BANGKOK BURNING" Greenday ft.American Idols - 21 Guns (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zcJXSbDjesw#)

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 19, 2010, 11:48:52 PM

Curfews extended to 21 Thai provinces after Bangkok riots
Wed May 19, 2010 9:05am EDT.
http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSSGE64I0MM20100519 (http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSSGE64I0MM20100519)

May 19 (Reuters) - An overnight curfew was announced in 21 provinces across Thailand on Wednesday following riots and arson attacks in Bangkok that erupted after a military offensive against anti-government protesters, authorities said.

The curfew extension was posted on TV channels, now under the control of the government, and said it would be in place between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. in provinces under emergency rule. The provincial curfews followed arson attacks and protests in at least seven provinces, which included the torching of town halls in three major cities, all of which were strongholds of the anti-government protest movement.
(Reporting by Ambika Ahuja; Writing by Martin Petty; Editing by Michael Perry).

-----------------------------------

arrowright List of provinces under the curfew:

Sor or chor stated 20:00 - 06:00 curfew in Bangkok and the following provinces start from tonight UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
List of 24 provinces under emergency law as of now:
Added today (19/5/2010) at 18:00:
Kalasin.
Mukdaharn
(Source: The Nation)
Added 16th May:
Ratchathani.
Mahasarakham.
Roi Et.
Sakon Nakhon.
Nong Bua Lampu
(Source: Xinhua)
Added 13 May:
Chonburi.
Samut Prakan.
Nonthaburi.
Pathum Thani.
Ayutthaya.
Khon Kaen.
Udon Thani.
Chaiyaphum.
Nakhon Ratchasima.
Si Sa Ket.
Chiang Mai.
Chiang Rai.
Nan.
Lampang.
Nakhon Sawan.
(Source: Bangkok Post)

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: urleft on May 20, 2010, 09:28:15 AM

This is really helpful to me getting back to the LOS  (NOT).

 >:(

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 20, 2010, 12:29:43 PM

Red shirt rioters take battle to the provinces
Govt offices set alight in North and Northeast  
Published: 20/05/2010 at 03:29 AM
Bangkok Post: Newspaper section: News

Chaos broke out in several provincial strongholds of the red shirt protesters after the government moved to disperse the main rally at Ratchaprasong, forcing red shirt leaders to turn themselves in to police.

(http://www.bangkokpost.com/media/content/20100520/144076.jpg)

City hall offices in several provinces in the North and Northeast were burned by United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship supporters after the Centre for Resolution of the Emergency Situation launched its operation to break the red shirt barricades at Sala Daeng and Sam Yan. The move forced UDD leaders to disperse the rally and surrender to save protesters’ lives.

More than 600 demonstrators in Udon Thani gathered at Thung Sri Muang grounds and lashed out against the government’s actions, after violence between the sides led to several deaths.

Authorities tried to calm protesters before they moved to the city hall office and broke the gates and glass doors before flocking inside.

Angry protesters broke and damaged assets including vehicles and set alight the city hall’s old building. Fire trucks could not access the areas because they were blocked by protesters.

In Khon Kaen, red shirt protesters set fire to the old wooden city hall building and burned it to the ground while the new building was burned at the west site.

About 2,000 enraged protesters broke the gates and damaged anything in their path.

They also set fire to a pile of old tyres in the city hall compound.

The situation was the same in Chiang Mai, the hometown of ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

Protesters burned the house of a senior provincial officer located in the compound of the provincial governor’s residence.

A number of old tyres were also burned at the compound.

Upset protesters also flocked to Bangkok Bank’s Tha Phae branch.

Meanwhile, pro-Thaksin supporters in Mukdahan broke into the city hall compound and burned the building. Fire trucks that responded were attacked by protesters, though some red shirts disagreed with such actions.

In Ubon Ratchathani, about 1,000 protesters clashed with security officers at the city hall compound before they set fire to the Provincial Culture Office located in the compound. Some protesters then moved to the second floor of city hall and set fire to the provincial governor’s room, damaging it severely.

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 20, 2010, 01:46:15 PM

Fires almost out, curfew extended 
The Nation: 20 May 2010
Curfew extended in Bangkok, 23 other provinces

The Centre for Resolution of Emergency Situation announced the extension of curfew in 24 provinces, including Bangkok, by three days until Saturday.

The curfew time will be changed form 8 pm to 6 am, to 9 pm to 5 am.

*Buriram is NOT under the curfew rules as for today (20/5/2010).  

 sawadi

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: dave the dude on May 20, 2010, 06:55:51 PM

There are no problems in Surin either.  footballscarf fastclapping clap

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 20, 2010, 08:19:33 PM

Just for security reasons, there are police and army in front of the city hall of Buriram city. (Jira road near the roundabout).
There is also a fire truck there, again, just for any case.

Buriram is very quite and there are no signs of the problems in Bangkok.

From what I understand also,the red shirts leaders surrendered so all this saga is hopefully going to end soon.  sawadi

---------------------

More red leaders surrender, call for end to rioting
Published: 20/05/2010 at 02:09 PM
Bangkok Post: Online news: Local News  

Three more core leaders of the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) surrendered to police at the Crime Suppression Division on Thursday afternoon.

The leaders are Veera Musikhapong, Weng Tojirakarn and Korkaew Pikulthong.

Mr Korkaew issued a statement calling on the red-shirts nationwide to stop rioting and for troops to stop shooting at people and to return to barracks.

Another UDD core leader Arisman Pongruengrong, who was earlier reported by the local media to have been arrested at a skytrain station on Wednesday evening, was still on the run.

Metropolitan Police deputy commissioner Amnuay Nimmano said that there was no confirmation from any unit  that Mr Arisman had been arrested or detained at the Naresuan military camp as reported.

Another group of red-shirt leaders turned themselves in on Wednesday -- Natthawut Saikua, Jatuborn Prompan, Wiphutalaeng Pattanaphumthai, Nisit Sinthuprai and Kwanchai Praipana.

Meanwhile, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) reported on Thursday that buildings at 35 locations had been set on fire since Wednesday, including the Stock Exchange of Thailand, the Metropolitan Electricity Authority's Klong Toey office, CentralWorld shopping complex, Siam Theatre and Center One shopping mall.

Big C Ratchadamri was also set on fire early Thursday morning.

Fires at all of these locations had been extinguished, but four of the buildings -- Big C Ratchadamri, Center One, CentralWorld and Siam Theatre -- have been declared danger zones because of the gutted buildings could collapse.

The arson around the capital and in other provinces after the surrender of some red-shirt leaders on Wednesday had been planned ahead, Centre for the Resolution of the Emergency Situation (CRES) spokesman Sansern Kaewkamnerd said on Thursday.

Some of the red-shirt leaders had urged the protesters to burn down buildings and loot, he said.

"In Bangkok, there have been attempts to set fires at 39 places including government offices, private properties, television stations," Col Sansern said.

Efforts to put out the fires had been hampered by  gunmen attempting to attack the firemen, he said.

Col Sansern then showed a video clip showing red-shirt leader Natthawut Saikua telling protesters, "Burn them, brothers and sisters. I will be the only one taking responsibility."

Col Sansern also said that there were attempts to attack protesters taking at Wat Pathumwanaram, in Ratchaprasong, where more than 5,000 red-shirts took refuge on Wednesday.

Six bodies were found inside a Thai Red Cross Society tent inside the temple grounds, he said.

According to reports, the victims were killed  by war weapons as they  tried to leave the temple for Pathumwan intersection, where the CRES had prepared buses for protesters to go home, Col Sansern said.

It was believed they were killed between 5pm and 6pm on Wednesday. Security personnel and police were still unable to enter the area at the time, he said.

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 20, 2010, 09:09:53 PM

WHAT IS HAPPENING EXACTLY IN THAILAND?
YOU CAN SEE THIS VIDEOs AND YOU WILL UNDERSTAND!

Video from TODAY 6:00am in Bangkok. THAI LANGUAGE:
Bangkok after the red mob.
Bangkok After Red-shirt Mob (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBsFHOEiCZE#)

News review from today in English:

Bangkok gov: Situation in Thai capital 'not back to normal' (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DZ0gZN_7xZg#)

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: TBWG on May 20, 2010, 09:51:19 PM

Anyone you recognise?

Just what we farangs need! Another excuse to make our lives difficult and who can blame them with retards like this about, a Brit as well!

Farang Threatens To Burn Central World Down And Steal Everything From It, 4 days before it happened. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3YqrqhMvco&feature=player_embedded#)       


TBWG sawadi

PS NOT the guy in the first few shots!!!!

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: dave the dude on May 21, 2010, 07:27:06 AM

Rumour is this Animal is called either Barry or Geoff and comes from Chang Mai.
Hope Immigration & Police have copy Video

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 21, 2010, 11:39:57 AM

Wounds will take a long time to heal
Published: 21/05/2010 at 04:05 AM
Bangkok Post: Newspaper section: News  

77 deaths. Over 1,400 injured. Hundreds of billions of baht in losses. Our country’s image stained with blood and smoke and flames.

No one knows how long it will take to close the deep divisions that have opened within Thai families and society. No one knows if we can heal the deep wounds suffered over the past several years. The past five years have changed us — the country and its people — irrevocably.

(http://bangkokpost.com/media/content/20100521/144405.jpg)

But whatever our future, there is no doubt that all Thais — no matter what our personal beliefs and views — must play a role in ensuring that such a dismal state of affairs never happens again. We owe it to ourselves and our children to heal the wounds and feelings of injustice and inequality widespread within society.

The Red March — which rapidly grew into the Red Crisis — comprised of many elements. There were those who genuinely and passionately felt that for so long they had been abused. They believed — erroneously — that Thaksin Shinawatra had a magical elixir that would cure them of their of inequality and injustice, perceived or real. So heated was their passion they were prepared to fight and to die for it in the name of “democracy”.

Then there were the opportunists, who selfishly and without care of the results of their actions, acted on Thaksin’s behalf. Some felt the time was ripe to overthrow the Monarchy and usher in a new regime. Others marched due to lingering resentment of the 2006 coup.

If there is anything we must learn from the nightmare of the past five years it is that it will take years, if not a generation, to tend to the wounds, right the wrongs and reduce the gaps that have so divided us. Let us never forget — for Thais do easily forget.

But just as we should not forget the task ahead, we also should not forgive. The actions of some among the red shirts of the past several weeks were unconscionable, actions taken with full knowledge of their leaders and tacit approval by Thaksin to wreck havoc and destabilise the government, the country’s image and economy for their own aims.

Red shirt leaders have repeatedly, and conveniently, said they had no control over the unruly elements. But as leaders, they cannot deny responsibility for the protesters – whatever faction they belong to.

While it may be argued that some of the violent incidents can be attributed to inflamed passions over principles and beliefs — the torching of buildings, the shootings to prevent rescue operations and use of war weapons are heinous acts which are planned — someone organised it, someone funded it and someone supported it. And they must be punished.

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: swimming pizza on May 22, 2010, 09:32:15 AM

looks like it ended just the way it started............... enough said. confused3

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 22, 2010, 05:08:55 PM

Subway to resume operation Sunday 
Finance Asia: 22 May 2010
Subway to resume operation Sunday

* Published: 22/05/2010 at 09:02 AM


The MRT has announced on Saturday morning that it will resume subway services on Sunday, from 8am to 8pm.

The MRT will provide subway full scale service as usual on Monday.

BTS said it needs times to assess damage and the system’s readiness for resuming providing services.

The BTS expects it would be able to resume skytrain service of both Silom and Sukhumvit lines on Monday.

-------------------------

The crisis is over for now.
All transportation like usual, luckily Buriram didn't had any effect from this problem in bangkok and hopefully both sides will come up with a result satisfy the majority of the people.
After all we want to have peace and stabillity in thailand.
Good for life and for business.
 sawadi

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 23, 2010, 11:55:40 AM

Curfew on a `day-to-day' basis
CRES SAYS NO IMMEDIATE END TO EMERGENCY RULE, MASSIVE CLEAN-UP UNDERWAY
Published: 23/05/2010 at 12:41 AM
Bangkok Post: Online news: Local News

Bangkok and some provinces will be under curfew today from 11pm to 5am and the Centre for the Resolution for the Emergency Situation (CRES) has no immediate plan to repeal the emergency decree, Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban said yesterday.

The curfew would remain in place today and the decision on whether to extend it would be made on a day-to-day basis, said Mr Suthep, who is the centre director.

Yesterday a curfew was declared between 9pm to 5am. The curfew was lifted in Pattaya. The centre had no plans to lift the emergency decree for the time being, he said.

The CRES believed that a large amount of heavy weapons were still in the possession of radical red shirt groups and vowed to find them to prevent further violence, he said.

``The CRES will press ahead with our operations to search for weapons and arrest those who took away the authorities' arms,'' Mr Suthep said.

According to the CRES, 85 people died (74 civilians and 11 security officers) and 1,402 were injured (991 civilians and 411 security officers) in a series of violent clashes and bomb attacks since April 10.

During the CRES briefing, officials displayed weapons and ammunition seized from the red shirt rally site, including M79 grenade launchers,  AK47s, handguns, several types of grenades, Molotov cocktails, bullets for automatic weapons and firecrackers.

``These are solid evidence to prove that the red shirt leaders instigated their people to torch businesses and state premises,'' said CRES spokesman Col Sansern Kaewkamnerd.

More weapons were found behind the rally stage at Ratchaprasong intersection and in the basement of the torched CentralWorld building yesterday.

As security officials continued their search for more weapons and other UDD members, work was underway to get the capital back on track.

All government agencies, offices and schools in the city open today.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) expects to return clean streets to Bangkokians tomorrow after a massive clean-up operation at six red shirt protest venues today.

Deputy Bangkok governor bornthep Techapaiboon said the BMA would today mobilise about 3,000 city workers and volunteers to sweep, clean and help to beautify areas of the city left filthy by the week's events.

The areas are:
1) Ratchadamri Road-Ratchaprasong area;
2) Silom-Narathiwat Ratchanakharin-Sathon roads;
3) Saphan Lueang, Sam Yan intersection, Siam Square and Henri Dunant Road;
4) Witthayu-Sarasin-Lang Suan roads and the Chidlom area;
5) Rama IV Road and areas in Bon Kai, Klong Toey and Channel 3 TV office;
6) and Ratchaprarop-Sri Ayutthaya intersections and the Din Daeng area.

As the two-month rally ended on Wednesday with widespread arson and looting in several spots in Bangkok as well as in northern and northeastern provinces, efforts now are geared towards the rehabilitation of damaged private and commercial properties.

The CRES set up a panel to assist small business operators and others affected by the rally.

PM's Office Minister Sathit Wongnongtoey chairs the 16-member committee to assess damages incurred by small businesses and individuals as a result of the political chaos.  Apirak Kosayodhin, an adviser to the prime minister, serves as the deputy chairman, according to the CRES order.

Democrat Party spokesman Buranat Samutharak yesterday said the party is concerned about three risk factors that could impede the government's national restoration and reconciliation process.

These factors are the movement of the radical Siam Red group, the movement of terrorist militants, and the political actions overseas of ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra, said Mr Buranat.

 Somyot Pruksakasemsuk, a young UDD leader, was interrogated by police yesterday after being arrested at a  Big C superstore in Lat Phrao.

Mr Somyot, leader of the June 24 Democratic group and the editor of Thai Red News newspaper, was apprehended by officers from Chokchai police station after he had set up a display of photographs of red shirt protesters killed during violent clashes between protesters and security forces.

Mr Somyot was later released because no arrest warrant had been issued for him under the emergency rule decree.

Mr Somyot said on Friday in front of the 111 Thai Rak Thai Foundation that red shirt mass rallies would resume next month and in July. Mr Somyot also told the press conference that his faction would unite with other red shirt groups to form the Democracy Assembly, which aimed to continue to campaign for democracy and justice.

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 23, 2010, 03:57:55 PM

Curfew to remain, hours shortened 
Bangkok Post: 23 May 2010
Curfew Extended!
TAN UPDATE : 23 May 2010

The Center for the Resolution of Emergency Situation (CRES) has officially announce to extend the impose of curfew in Bangkok and other provinces during May 22-23, 2010 for security reason. However, the time span has been adjusted and will start from 11P.M. to 4A.M.

After two more nights of curfew, the CRES will evaluate the appropriateness of whether the curfew should continue.

Moreover, the security command center has now moved from the 11th Infantry Regiment to the Royal Thai Army Headquarter, and will hold a meeting twice everyday as usual.

Also, security forces have been arranged to monitor 17 vital places in Bangkok including Sirirat Hospital, the Government House, Parliament, and various other governmental buildings.

http://www.tannetwork.tv/tan/ViewData.aspx?DataID=1029746 (http://www.tannetwork.tv/tan/ViewData.aspx?DataID=1029746)

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 24, 2010, 01:09:49 PM

Bangkok united in clean-up operation 
Bangkok Post: 24 May 2010
City stands united for clean-up

Some 4,000 volunteers joined together in a bid to wash away some of the ravages of recent weeks on Bangkok

Thailand might be a nation deeply divided but that has not stopped a large group of teenagers from coming together to spend their Sunday cleaning up the filth-strewn streets of the capital.

It is hoped Sunday's clean-up operation will help ease people's grief and horror at the sight of the debris and ruin across central Bangkok.

The teenagers were among volunteers and city workers asked to help clean six venues affected by the red shirt demonstration which remained littered with garbage and reeking of stench, and many viewed the activity as a symbol of unity.

"Unity in this society still exists and we're using it to restore our destroyed nation," said Ananya Sukitjanupab, a 15-year-old senior high student at Triam Udom Suksa school.

She wanted red shirt rioters - and others who ravaged the country - to realise what they had done to destroy the image of Thailand as a peaceful state. She said she also wanted them to realise how they had damaged its economy by forcing foreign tourists out and making many workers unemployed.

Ananya took a brief break from her hectic cleaning work to explain to the Bangkok Post what she had felt over the past week when many iconic places, including the 44-year-old Siam Theatre, in Bangkok, were engulfed in flames by angry rioters.

Note to readers

Public transport services will be limited today due to the curfew.

- Bus: 5.30am to 8pm.

- Boat on Saen Saep canal: 5.30am to 8.30pm.

- BTS skytrain: 6am to 9pm with stops at all stations except Ratchadamri.

Many students from her school also joined the effort. Up to 250 of them were at the rally areas covering parts of Rama IV Road, Bon Kai, Ratchaprasong and Siam Square, Mathayom4 student Saratchanan Butsarakamwadi said.

"We want our actions to make those destroying the country feel ashamed," she said.

"Now children are showing you that public awareness is a real big issue. We've never thought to destroy the nation."

Bangkok Governor Sukhumbhand Paribatra estimated about 4,000 people joined the activity yesterday, which was above the target number of 3,000.

Many were willing to dip their hands into sewers to remove the filth. Some tackled the sweeping and collected piles of garbage swarming with flies while others were busying scrubbing roads without complaining as their clothes became filthy.

"It's a picture we rarely see today. Many come here to restore things destroyed by their Thai compatriots," said Natthanithi Laemjing, 26, who took his three-year-old niece to join the activity.

Mr Natthanithi said he wanted his niece to "absorb that public awareness and love the nation". He said he did not want her to grow into a selfish person who used violence to solve problems.

Other volunteers said they joined the activity out of sympathy for Siam Square and the Ratchaprasong area where some buildings collapsed in flames. The places are well known as hangouts for teenagers, who do not only come to shop but to search for inspiration and creativity.

Benjawan Chaisuthatip, 20, who regards the areas as a second home for teenagers, said it was her duty to help restore the areas through the clean-up.

"If the host doesn't do it, who would do it?" she said.

Many volunteers were Facebook users who learnt about the activity from an online campaign encouraging users of the site to help restore the city.

"I can't sit idly in the face of crisis. I have posted message on Facebook and sent it out to Facebook friends, asking them to help clean up the streets and buildings," said Sasiluck Kanil, a former airline officer.

The message quickly spread throughout the virtual community.

"I plan to help clean up the streets in Bangkok every weekend until Bangkok returns to normalcy," she said.

Another Facebook user, Sakaorat Limwilairat, a 31-year-old marketing officer, said she joined the activity because it was a small thing she could do to help bring the country back on track.

Apisada Suwannarote, a Mathayomsuksa5 student of Triam Udom Suksa school, said: "We all have the same feeling that we want to see Bangkok become clean as quickly as possible".

http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/local/37620/city-stands-united-for-clean-up (http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/local/37620/city-stands-united-for-clean-up)

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 25, 2010, 04:55:50 PM

Thaksin arrest warrant issued, curfew extended 
: 25 May 2010
Curfew of Midnight to 4 A.M. Extended til Friday
TAN UPDATE : 25 May 2010

Cabinet has approved the implementation of a curfew stretching between midnight to 4 A.M. every night from Tuesday to Friday, May 28.

CRES initially proposed that curfews be implemented until the end of the month. However, Cabinet agreed that a re-evaluation of the situation was needed before then.
------------

Arrest Warrant out for Thaksin's Arrest for Terrorism Charge
TAN UPDATE : 25 May 2010

Court approves an arrest warrant for former PM Thaksin Shinawatra for terrorism for his support for the anti-government protests and the subsequent riots in nationwide earlier this month.

The court says the staggering incriminating evidence against Thaksin warrants the arrest order.
-------------

Governors Moved to Inactive Posts Following Torching of Provincial Halls
UPDATE : 25 May 2010

The governors of Khon Kean, Udon Thani, Mukdahan, and Ubon Ratchathani have been moved to inactive posts at the Interior Ministry following the torching of their respective provincial halls.
--------------

Jatuporn Turns Himself In to DSI
UPDATE : 25 May 2010

Red shirt leader Jatuporn Phrompan has turned himself in to authorities at the Department of Special Investigation. A large group of red shirt supporters arrived on the scene to cheer him on.

It remains to be seen, however, if he will be able to use his Parliamentary immunity and be released during the trail.

http://www.tannetwork.tv/tan (http://www.tannetwork.tv/tan)

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: Admin on May 29, 2010, 04:21:24 PM

Curfew could end today
Published: 29/05/2010 at 12:00 AM
Newspaper section: News  

The Centre for the Resolution of the Emergency Situation may decide to lift the curfew today although it wants emergency rule to continue.

Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban, as head of the CRES, said yesterday the CRES wanted to see the curfew come to an end as soon as possible.

Bangkok and 23 provinces remain under nighttime curfew and emergency rule.

Mr Suthep said the decision to recommend whether the curfew in Bangkok should be lifted rests with police who are directly responsible for maintaining security in the capital.

In the provinces, such decisions lie with soldiers.
The prime minister will have the final say in deciding whether the curfew imposed in Bangkok and the 23 provinces should be lifted, Mr Suthep said. Word is expected today.

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: TBWG on May 30, 2010, 03:16:02 AM

Hi Bums

Update on the Brit Redshirt...   Seems he's not so bolshie now!
   


A Briton facing jail, or even the possibility of a death sentence, for his alleged part in redshirt rioting in Bangkok last week, broke down in tears in court today, saying his incarceration is distressing his elderly mother.

Jeff Savage is being detained under Thailand's emergency decree on allegations he incited, or participated in, violence and arson in the chaotic final hours of the anti-government protest, as troops moved in on demonstrators. Fifteen people were killed on the final day of the two-month protest in the middle of Bangkok.

Led into court barefoot, Savage was manacled in leg-irons, and wearing prison-issue orange shirt and shorts. He struggled with guards and insisted he was being blamed for the crimes of others.

"We're being scapegoated. Where's all the other people who were in the protest? … We're being made scapegoats. We're political prisoners."

But facing a judge for the first time since being arrested at the weekend, he broke down sobbing. "This is hurting my mother, she's 80 years old. Can't anybody help me?"

The British embassy is providing Savage, of Tonbridge, Kent, with consular assistance. The 48-year-old has not yet been charged, but Pathumwan municipal court in central Bangkok today heard that police investigations were continuing into his role with the redshirts.

At this stage he is expected to be charged with violating the emergency decree, which carries a two-year jail sentence, but the Guardian has been told authorities are looking to press further, more serious, charges.

Three more witnesses to Savage's behaviour in the final hours of the redshirts' protest will be interviewed in coming days, the court heard.

Video footage circulating on YouTube shows Savage in the days before the protest was ended apparently urging protestors to set fire to Central World shopping centre, the biggest mall in Thailand.

"We're gonna smash the fucking Central [World] Plaza … we're gonna loot everything, gold, watches, everything, and then we're gonna burn it to the ground," Savage says in the video.

Central World was later razed by redshirt protesters fleeing government troops, and a government spokesman has said a "white westerner was involved in the arson attack", seen at the building as the fire took hold.

Savage has confessed to being at the state-owned TV station Channel 3 building when it was torched on the same afternoon but says he did not help set it alight. He says he was not near Central World.

The head of Thailand's Department of Special Investigations – the equivalent to MI5 – has warned that those found guilty of arson could face the death penalty.

The DSI declined to comment on Savage's case specifically, but directed the Guardian to comments made earlier this week by the chief investigator.

"There are groups of people who are burning state offices and public places," Tharit Pengdit said. "The DSI would like to warn these people that they could face a death sentence."

Thailand's prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva singled out Savage as long-term member of the anti-government redshirts, and said authorities would continue their investigations into his involvement.

"In the case of the Briton, he's involved with the [redshirt] movement in Pattaya. In-depth investigations will be carried out to find out whether he had any other role."

Savage appeared in court alongside an Australian man Conor Purcell, who berated the judge, saying that the court had no authority to try him.

"Nobody in this country has authority over me. I'm not under Thai law. I'm only obeying international law. I'm head of the red gang," he yelled at the court, brushing off efforts by embassy officials to calm him down.

Purcell, who also claimed to have been beaten in prison, is facing similar charges to Savage. He is accused of inciting violence through a series of incendiary speeches made on the redshirts' main protest stage.

The redshirt movement opposes the Abhisit government, alleging that it is illegitimate and a puppet for the vested interests of Bangkok's military and wealthy elite. Two months of protests came to a brutal end last week, when Abhisit ordered troops to move on demonstrators. Fifteen people were killed in the crackdown, bringing to 88 the number of people killed over the course of the protest.

Both Savage and Purcell had their detentions in Bangkok remand prison extended under the emergency decree for another week. They will reappear in court on 4 June.

Led from the court, Savage was again defiant: "They won't gag us. This is a political case … they're charging me with a criminal case."


TBWG sawadi

Title: Re: State of emergency rules announced!!
Post by: somchai on June 02, 2010, 06:22:08 PM

Much ado and coverage is being cast upon the Jeff Savage issue.....som nom na.