Blasts In Protest-hit
Thailand
Thailand
upgraded security measures on Thursday after two blasts hit
government buildings, the latest in a string of minor attacks
since anti-government protests erupted this month.
The rallies mounted by red-shirted supporters of ousted premier
Thaksin Shinawatra have been met with a heavy security
deployment, including a lockdown on parliament that has
triggered an opposition boycott.
Authorities said that the new blasts, which hit a provincial
hall on Bangkok's northern outskirts and a government building
west of the capital, had hit weak spots in the operation
involving fifty thousand personnel.
Government Stands
The Deputy Prime Minister, Suthep Thaugsuban, said operation had
to be adjusted to curtail the attacks, which follow eight other
minor explosions since the protests began on March 14 to push
for fresh elections, caused minor damage but no injuries.
The Police investigating the provincial hall explosion said most
of the incidents have involved grenades, which left a small
crater of about twenty centimeters deep.
Metropolitan Police Commander, Santhan Chayanont ordered police
to increase the number of checkpoints and patrols, particularly
on main roads and at key government facilities, and enforce
searches for weapons and explosives.
Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva on Tuesday extended a tough
security law enacted for the demonstrations, applying it to
Bangkok and nearby districts for an additional week to scare the
Red Shirts, who have vowed fresh action.
They threatened to move their protest encampment, currently in
the capital's old quarter, to the crowded downtown district if
their opponents pursue plans to obtain legal orders to halt the
demonstrations.
AFP/Williams/Qasim
