Thai army threatens to intervene

The chief of Thailand’s army warned that his troops “may use force” to quell the political violence in the country.

The rare official statement from General Prayut Chan-O-Cha came after three people were killed in an attack on protesters in Bangkok earlier today.

He said: "I want to warn every group – especially those who use violence and war weapons against innocent civilians – to stop now because if the violence continues the military may be needed to come out... to restore peace and order.”  

Unknown assailants fired two grenades into a rally camp at the Democracy Monument. This was followed by a burst of gunfire. Three people were killed and 23 wounded.

Demonstrators are pushing for the appointment of an unelected premier. This has infuriated government supporters, who were dealt a blow after a controversial court ruling last week ousted Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra from office.  

The Thai military, which has staged 18 successful or attempted coups since 1932, has been at pains to stay neutral during the six-month crisis despite pressure by anti-government protesters to step-in on their behalf.

Source: AFP

Photo: EPA