Govt asks UDD supporters to disperse

BANGKOK, 7 April 2010 (NNT) – Deputy Prime Minister for Security Affairs Suthep Thaugsuban, on behalf of the government, has pleaded supporters of the United Front of Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) to leave the rally sites under the State of Emergency.

Speaking as the director of the Center for Public Administration in Emergency Situation, Mr Suthep asked UDD supporters not to travel to join the gathering at Ratchaprasong Intersection and Phan Fah Bridge. He said transportation would be provided for those wishing to return home in other provinces.

As rumors could spread during the ongoing situation, the Deputy Prime Minister stated that the government would try its best to restore the situation back to normalcy. He confirmed that all operations would be transparent, and he would keep the public updated on a continuous basis.

To control the size of the crowd, mobilization of additional protestors to Bangkok will be banned. Police officers will be tasked with setting up checkpoints to screen for weapons and check ID cards of people travelling to the capital city.

Meanwhile, all government offices are assigned to tighten security at all premises. More security officers will be deployed from Wednesday night onwards to prevent unrest instigation.

Mr Suthep then requested the public to notify any irregularities and give full cooperation to the authorities. He also asked the public to have trust in the operation of the authorities and the government in restoring the situation back to normalcy.