CRES lifts curfew in Pattaya

BANGKOK, May 22 (TNA) – The Centre for the Resolution of Emergency Situation (CRES) lifted its curfew in Pattaya on Friday night after security related agencies prepared their response plan and no violence was expected.

The announcement, which was made at 8.45pm Friday, took effect immediately.

Curfew imposed in Pattaya, in coastal Chonburi province, reportedly severely impacted the tourism business in Pattaya, so CRES lifted the curfew to facilitate business.

Curfews have been imposed in Bangkok and 23 other provinces since Wednesday after a riot erupted in Bangkok and several provinces in the north and northeast.

The violence occurred after several leaders of the anti-government ‘Red Shirt’ United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) surrendered to the authorities after the army stepped up its pressure against the protesters encamped at Ratchaprasong since early April.

After the announcement, Pattaya Walking Street at the heart of the famed beach resport district return to life again. Partygoers, Thais and foreigners alike, went out to enjoy the nightlife.

However, many entertainment venues were still closed as the owners were not aware of the announcement.

Government security agencies in Pattaya remain on high alert and strict measures are still in force until the situation returns to normal.

Security checkpoints were increased from five to 10 and the number of police and security volunteers were also increased to monitor government office buildings, service stations and department stores. (TNA)