CRES warns protestors to keep clear of hospital area or be forced out

BANGKOK, 1 May 2010 (NNT) – The Center for the Resolution of Emergency Situation (CRES) issues a stern warning to UDD protestors to keep clear of the King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, or be forced out by authorities by Sunday.

Colonel Sansern Kaewkamnerd, Spokesperson of CRES and the Royal Thai Army, reported that the CRES evening meeting chaired by CRES Deputy Director, and joined by Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, reviewed the case of UDD hospital search, condemned by all sides. This led to questions on why military force was not used to defend hospital area which was part of the Red Cross Society.

He said that the Prime Minister ordered local police to establish their authority in the hospital, and to clear areas in front of the hospital, to create confidence for medical personnel and the general public by tomorrow morning.

The police will start with negotiations and are prepared to use force when necessary. The Prime Minister emphasized that no rally would be allowed up to Sarasin junction.