UDD protesters at Ratchaprasong face legal action

BANGKOK, 3 April 3, 2010 (NNT) – The Center for the Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO) declares a rally at Ratchaprasong Junction illegal. Violators are subject to an imprisonment of not exceeding one year and/or a fine of not exceeding 20,000 THB.

CAPO Spokesman Colonel Sansern Kaewkamnerd, PM’s Office Minister Satit Wonghnongtaey and Acting Government Spokesman Panitan Watanayagorn were present at a press conference to announce the legal action against the protesters tonight at the center’s head quarters at the 11th Infantry Regiment. A rally is also prohibited on roads surrounding the junction, including Rama I, Sukhumvit and Ratchadamri. The minister said CAPO decided to enforce law prohibiting a mass gathering there since the roads were located in an important business area of the capital city.

The minister assured the government did not try to disperse the anti-government protests by announcing to take legal action against them. He added that the government would clarify the matter to the protesters later to create an understanding.

The United Front of Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD) has rallied at Ratchaprasong Junction since this morning, blocking traffic on the roads. The group’s core figures announced that the UDD supporters would keep on rallying there until the government dissolved the House.

The UDD has staged its mass protests in Bangkok since 12 March 2010.