Bangkok Red-Shirt Rally - Live Friday

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Friday May 21 Red-Shirt rally live updates

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Related topic: Bangkok Red-Shirt Rally - Live Thursday

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[george]

tukky_nt: Time to rebuild...The Nation front page, May 21: http://tweetphoto.com/23205462

RichardBarrow:[moblog] Panic Buying at Foodland: After news about the curfew in Samut Prakan I thought I should... http://bit.ly/bdLPPY

RT @sajal: at nana nua the only sound that can be heard outside is a dog barking few sois away... that too for 5 to 10 seconds....

[Maestro]

Couple More Days Needed to Clear Rajaprasong

UPDATE : 20 May 2010

Royal Thai Army Deputy Staff Command Lieutenant General Daopong Ratanasuwan has announced that the Center for the Resolution of the Emergency Center will need a few more days to finish cleaning the Ratchaprasong Intersection.

He explained that since the red-shirt protesters had been encamping the area for a long time, a thorough investigation is needed to search whether more weapons are still hidden.

Once the mission is done, CRES will pass on the area to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration staff.

-- Tan Network 2010-05-20

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[Maestro]

Graphic Video of Thai Protest Aftermath

Bangkok resembles war zone after government crackdown on Red Shirt protesters.

-- Fox News 2010-05-20

[Maestro]

BANGKOK VIOLENCE

Billions readied for economic restoration

By The Nation

Published on May 21, 2010

The Finance Ministry is prepared to spend billions of baht on emergency measures to restore the violence-battered economy, as it is clear that the financial damage will shave off the perspective gross domestic product by 0.5 percentage point.

Finance Minister Korn Chatikavanij said yesterday that short-term remedial measures would soon be tabled for the Cabinet's consideration, which could entail cash giveaways and tax incentives.

"It's not conclusive yet how much money is needed, but initially it is estimated to be billions of baht. This is aimed at restoring the economy and ease troubles of individuals and business operators. The impact has spreaded out to those living and doing business outside the Rajprasong area," he said.

He noted that the softloan package, proposed to help tourism operators, may be insufficient as the GDP growth rate is chopped by 0.5 percentage point after the violence. The measures will cover all economic sectors and individuals who lose jobs or earn less income due to the violence. He hoped that once public buses and train services resume and there is no more violence, the economic restoration process could be carried out in a smoother manner.

Korn vowed to apply Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva's roadmap in addressing social and economic inequalities in a concrete way. He also stressed that it is necessary to win consensus from all parties in solving the problems - public sector, the business sector, politicians and individuals. He noted that the economy cannot show progress under unstable political condition.

Departing to Japan yesterday for an Asia-Pacific seminar on behalf of the prime minister, Korn said he would update all participants of Thailand's political and economic conditions.

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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[Thaivisa News]

""Battle of the Buttes" was the opening film of Siam Theatre 44 years ago when it was the city's most modern movie theatre." /via @veen_NT

[Maestro]

WAT PATHUM WANARAM

Six bodies retrieved from 'safe zone'

By The Nation

Published on May 21, 2010 - UPDATED

CRES blames snipers; witness says shots came from soldiers' direction

Authorities retrieved six bodies from Wat Pathum Wanaram yesterday. The temple was declared a safe zone on Monday.

So far, since the government's started its security operations to reclaim Rajprasong intersection from the red-shirt protesters on May 14, 51 people have died and about 400 have been injured. It still remains unclear who is responsible for the casualties in the temple compound.

According to the Centre for the Resolution of the Emergency Situation (CRES), unidentified snipers have been active around the Rajprasong intersection, obstructing security operations.

Initial examination showed that the victims in Pathum Wanaram Temple had died from gunshot wounds. Of the victims, two were demonstrators and one a female nurse.

While CRES spokesman Colonel Sansern Kaewkamnerd said unidentified snipers were responsible for the deaths at the temple, a witness said he had heard gunfire from where the soldiers were positioned.

"My friends and I served as volunteer nurses for the demonstrators," Wasan Sairassamee said, adding that he and his colleagues were working from a tent set up for medical personnel near the entrance to the temple, which was declared a safe zone on Monday.

"Shortly before 6pm on Wednesday, we saw heavily-armed soldiers moving to the BTS track. At around that time, more demonstrators rushed into the temple," Wasan said.

He added that he and his colleagues had initially decided to hide inside their tent.

"But when we heard gunshots coming from the soldiers' direction and saw a demonstrator fall down, a volunteer from our tent rushed out to help," he said, adding that the hail of gunfire continued after the injured protester was pulled to safety.

"We ducked and lay low for about 10 minutes until the gunfire stopped," Wasan recounted.

However, he said when the female nurse stood up, she was shot and died instantly.

"Bullets hit her in the head and the body," Wasan said.

An informed source said that up to seven people had been shot inside the temple on Wednesday.

"One was rushed out to a hospital and died there," the source said. "That is why there are just six bodies left."

Some of the victims identified include Wichai Manpae, 61; Mongkhon Khemthong, 37; and Attachai Chumjan, 29. The female nurse was identified only as Kamon or Ked.

Attachai and Mongkhon worked as volunteers for the Por Teck Tung Foundation.

Mongkhon's older sister, Somjit Sukprasert, said she was very sad to hear of her brother's death.

"Still, I am proud that he sacrificed his life for other people regardless of their political affiliations. He was always willing to help others, be they soldiers or demonstrators," Somjit said.

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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[Maestro]

PAGE 1 COMMENT

Amid discord, let us together rediscover note of harmony

By The Nation

Published on May 21, 2010

Everything looks irreparable _ the gutted CentralWorld, what was left of Siam Theatre, the charred skeletons of Centre One, among others.

The lives lost can't be got back. The country's image lies in ruins. And just when we thought the unbelievable feelings of hatred couldn't spread any futher, they have deepened and threatened to keep on deepening.

Many fires are still smouldering and to some it's not practical to talk about rebuilding now. The "war" is not over, even far from it, they say. The blazes around the City of Angels may be dying, but fresh flames of anger have been ignited in the hearts of people on both sides and they look almost certain to rage for a long time.

The scenes were compared to the aftermath of 9/11. The pictures may appear strikingly similar, but there is one huge difference. The gigantic rubbles of the World Trade Centre united Americans, but here people looking at the smoking corpse of CentralWorld are torn apart by how they feel. The rich and the poor hugged before the WTC's massive graveyard and shed collective tears for those who died, but here very few people weep for torched CentralWorld and the slain red shirts at the same time.

How can we begin reconstruction? How do we go from here? Reconciliation was already hard even when CentralWorld still stood and the red-shirt protesters were still singing and dancing at Rajprasong. Who could possibly re-unite Thais under these trying circumstances? With everyone more or less responsible for breaking the glass, who should fix it?

Maybe it's too much ideology, which has infested us and led us astray. Maybe solutions lie in the basic instincts of the firemen trying to control the CentralWorld inferno and journalists or ordinary onlookers attempting to save lives of people hit by bullets, no matter who they were.

There must be something good about us for we have lived together this long as a nation.

Whatever that something is, we must rediscover and resuscitate it. It's normal for the head and heart to go separate ways sometimes but when the body is down sprawling, there's no choice but for both entities to tell it to get up.

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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[Maestro]

BANGKOK WEEPS

Time to rebuild

By The Nation

Published on May 21, 2010

Photo Prasert Thepsri

Curfew extended until tomorrow, from 9pm to 5am; Veera and Weng among the red-shirt leaders to surrender

The government yesterday extended until tomorrow the curfew in Bangkok and 23 other provinces under the state of emergency.

The Centre for the Resolution of the Emergency Situation (CRES) announced it would now be in effect from 9pm to 5am, a slight relaxing from Wednesday night, when it ran from 8pm to 6am.

CRES spokesman Colonel Sansern Kaewkamnerd said the curfew made it easier for authorities to deal with law violators and the many armed terrorists believed hiding in tall buildings around the protest site.

He said a joint military-police force of 112 companies was employed in the operation to disperse the illegal protest and suppress the armed men.

The curfew was first announced on Wednesday after rioters, arsonists, looters and gunmen wreaked havoc throughout many parts of Bangkok.

Thirty-nine buildings in the capital became targets of arson attacks in a day of fiery rage by red-shirt protesters and their sympathisers. The rage began after the protest leaders announced an end to their 45-day anti-government protest at the Rajprasong shopping area and surrendered to police.

Among the 39 buildings set ablaze during the riots were CentralWorld shopping complex, the Maleenont Building (which houses Channel 3 television), the Siam and Scala cinemas, Centre One shopping centre, the Metropolitan Electricity Authority's Klong Toei office, bank branches (mostly belonging to Bangkok Bank) and convenience stores.

Fourteen people were killed and 133 others injured in Wednesday's mayhem, including six bodies found inside Wat Pathum Wanaram, located next to the protest site. They were sent to the police's Institute of Forensic Medicine for autopsies.

Red-shirt leaders Jatuporn Promphan, Natthawut Saikua, Vipoothalaeng Pattanaphumthai and Kwanchai Praipana surrendered on Wednesday.

They were charged with violating the emergency decree and involvement un terrorist acts, then taken to a military camp in Phetchaburi province for detention and interrogation.

Three more leaders - Veera Musigapong, weng Tojirakarn and Kohkaew Pikunthong - surrendered to police at the Crime Suppression Division yesterday.

Police are continuing to hunt for hardline red-shirt leaders Arisman Pongruangrong and Suporn Atthawong, who remain at large. An earlier report that Arisman had been arrested near Ploenchit Skytrain Station, close to the protest site, proved untrue. Veera said after his surrender that he was saddened by what had happened over the past couple of days and considered it "a tragedy". He called on "the real red shirts" to adhere to peaceful and non-violent means to fight for their cause.

"I understand what happened over the past few days may cause the red shirts to be angry and upset. I want all parties to end their mutual anger. I would like to tell you that anger will never lead to real peace, and democracy cannot be created by vengefulness and bias," he said.

Theptai Senpong, spokesman for the Democrat Party leader, yesterday said Veera had admitted fugitive ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra had influenced the red-shirt leaders' decisions.

The Democrat branded Thaksin the "chief terrorist" for allegedly being behind a political rally in which heavily armed terrorists had mingled with protesters.

He said among the weapons found at the protest site were assault rifles, M79 grenade launchers, rocket-propelled grenades and petrol bombs.

Earlier yesterday, Thaksin's legal adviser, Noppadon Pattama said he did not think any former prime minister, including Thaksin, would support burning the city or any other acts of terrorism.

He said the charge of terrorism against his boss was aimed at making Thaksin's life abroad more difficult.

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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[Thaivisa News]

AFP: Thailand violence a 'threat to democracy, EU parliament

AFP: The violent clashes between protesters and authorities in Thailand is a "threat to democracy", the EU parliament warned

AFP: Voicing their "deep concern about the violent conflict," the Euro MPs assembled in...(1/2)

AFP: .... Strasbourg passed a resolution underlining that it "poses a threat to democracy in the country."(2/2)

AFP: It stressed that under UN basic principles "authorities must, as far as possible, apply non-violent..(1/2)

AFP: ..means b4 resorting 2 the use of force & firearms and must use restraint & act in proportion 2 the seriousness of the offence" (2/2)

AFP: EU parliament, in its resolution, urged all parties 2 begin talks immediately "to seek...(1/2)

AFP: ...a quick, negotiated settlement and to solve the current crisis by peaceful and democratic means." (2/2)

Veteran fireman of over 3 decades on CTW "I've nevr faced such a tough task in my entire career. Fire hard 2 control w/ attacks" /v @veen_NT

[Maestro]

Proesters go home with tears of joy

By The Nation

Published on May 21, 2010

Nearly 3,000 demonstrators, some of them with tears of joy, yesterday left the Wat Pathum Wanaram and all areas adjacent to the Rajprasong intersection for their homes.

Nearly 800 protesters had been huddled inside the temple, declared as a safety zone, during the past few days as the military surrounded and surged into the main rally site at the Rajprasong intersection.

These demonstrators said they had wanted to go back home since Wednesday but were too afraid to leave the temple. Rumours spread like wildfire among the demonstrators that those who stepped out would be shot.

Their fears were heightened after mysterious snipers shot and killed many victims nearby.

"A community leader brought me here, saying I should fight for democracy. But he simply disappeared at the time the soldiers were moving in," an elderly woman said.

"Then, someone suggested that I should seek solace inside the temple. The atmosphere was terrifying because gunshots were heard throughout the night and there were people running in and out all the time".

She said she would never attend a political rally in Bangkok again.

"But I think it should be okay to attend a rally in my home province of Kalasin," she said on condition of anonymity.

Of about 1,000 demonstrators inside the temple yesterday, 70 per cent were women, children and elderly persons. It took a lot of effort by police to persuade these demonstrators to step out of the temple. They were apparently worried about their safety.

Among those leaving the temple yesterday were unaccompanied children. Police are now trying to locate their parents.

Some 2,000 demonstrators were not at the temple. They simply remained inside their tents that were set up around the Rajprasong intersection. When the security officials moved in, they gradually moved to the National Police Office yesterday as instructed.

At the National Police Office, all demonstrators had to register themselves and were subjected to searches. Those wanted in any criminal cases or carrying weapons were detained. Those who brought along their own vehicles were still not allowed to drive home in their own vehicles. Police planned to keep their vehicles for record checks to see if they were used for any crime.

The demonstrators yesterday walked to the Rama I Road where the Transport Ministry had prepared buses to send them home or to meet their relatives.

Although many Pheu Thai MPs showed up at the National Police Office to offer these protesters a free ride, police barred them from intervening.

The Centre for Resolution of Emergency Situation did not allow the MPs to offer transport to these demonstrators.

The state of emergency has now been declared in various provinces in the country.

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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[Thaivisa News]

A tweet that needs to be read: "Farewell to our beloved Siam Theatre" http://bit.ly/aKVWgL /via @veen_NT

"Curfew" http://tweetphoto.com/23212109 /via @errorlloyd

[Maestro]

A farewell to Siam Theatre

By Parinyaporn Pajee

The Nation

Published on May 21, 2010

   

 

   

Hundreds of comments and eulogies have been written and posted at Pantip.com and on Facebook since last night's arson attack on Siam Theatre, as film fans and Bangkok residents share their memories and sadness at the burning of one of Bangkok's oldest cinemas.

Siam Theatre was one of only a few standalone cinemas in town. It was much more than just a theatre, holding many memories for film lovers since opening its doors 44 years ago.

"The first film screened at Siam Theatre was "Battle of the Bulge" aka "Rot Thung Prajan Ban". I went to see it 44 years ago and sat in the front row as that's where the cheapest seats were - a ticket cost just Bt7," says well known architect Yodyium Theptaranon on Facebook.

"I remember the fun I had watching 'Jurassic Park' with my gang," writes "Don't care never die."

"I never knew how much the theatre meant to me until yesterday. I cried. Hope the place will be back soon, I'll wait for you," says "Ranmachan."

"Siam and Lido theatres are the venues where I can watch movies alone and not feel lonely. I trust the staff in their yellow suits who take care of us very well. My tears fell when I watched the news and I thought of the staff and the uncle in yellow. I am sure they feel sad like us," says "Sao Na sasi" at Chalermthai.

"Even though I've only watched movies at Lido and Scala, I think the atmosphere is the same. Siam Theatre is a symbol, a meeting place. It's a place where there are a lot of memories. I cried when watching the news. Can you get anything by burning these places except more conflict?" writes "kokoro_kim".

The 800-seat Siam theatre opened on December 15, 1966 with the film "Battle of the Bulge" ("Rot Thung Prajan Ban") starring Henry Fonda and Robert Shaw. It was the first place in Thailand to boast an escalator.

The nearby Lido Theatre opened two years later on June 27, 1968, premiering with the Western "Guns for San Sebastian" ("Suek Sebastian") starring Anthony Quinn. The 1,000 seat Scala theatre opened the following year, on December 31, 1969.

Originally to be called Chula, the name was changed to Siam following strong opposition from critics who felt it inappropriate to give a cinema the same name as a monarch.

The three cinemas under the APEX chain have been popular for decades.

While Scala is where Hollywood blockbusters are generally screened, Siam has long been the theatre of choice for Thai films, among them MC Chatreechalerm Yukol's "Khon Liang Chang" ("The Elephant Keeper") and the acclaimed film noir by Manop Udomdej, "Kaloke Bang Tai Chai Kaloke Na Tai Korn" ("The Dumb Die Fast, The Smart Die Slow").

Following a fire at Lido cinema in 1993 and its reconstruction and remodelling as a three theatre multiplex, the Apex chain has adapted to current trends, showing both blockbusters and alternative movies, including festival winners, Asian films and Thai independent films. The advantages include longer screening periods, warm and welcoming staff and cheaper tickets.

Siam Theatre and the surrounding area are up for demolition next year by the landowner Chulalongkorn University. According to the master plan, it will be replaced be a modern shopping complex.

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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[Maestro]

Chronology

By The Nation

Published on May 21, 2010

How the events unfolded Wednesday and Thursday

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Wednesday

1.30pm: Red-shirt leaders announce the end of the rally and surrender at the Royal Thai Police headquarters. They were later taken to the Naresuan Border Patrol Police Base in Hua Hin by helicopter.

2.30pm Protesters, announcing that they were independent of the leaders, set fire to Central World shopping centre. They also allegedly shoot to prevent officials from controlling the fire.

The Metropolitan Electricity Authority and Metropolitan Waterworks Authority offices in Klong Toei are also reported to be on fire. Din Daeng branches of Bangkok Bank and Government Savings Bank are set ablaze, while buses are burned down at the Samyan intersection.

2.40pm: BMTA suspends bus services across Bangkok.

3pm: Channel 3 suspends services after red shirts raid and set Maleenont Building on fire.

3.20pm: The Stock Exchange of Thailand on Ratchadaphisek Road and Loxley Building on Na Ranong are set on fire.

3.30pm: Siam Theatre opposite to Siam Paragon is set ablaze.

3.50pm: Fire breaks out at Carrefour and Tesco Lotus on Rama IV road.

4pm: The Centre for Resolution of the Emergency Situation announces curfew from 8pm to 6am.

4.30pm: Bangkok Bank Asoke Branch is set ablaze.

4.45pm: Helicopter arrives to evacuate Channel 3 personnel.

6pm: Centre One shopping centre, near Victory Monument, and 7-Eleven stores nearby are set on fire.

7.40pm: Department of Special Investigation director-general Tharit Pengdit announces that the Criminal Court has approved an arrest warrant for terrorism against 10 people including former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

7.44pm: Bangkok Bank's Hua Lamphong branch is set on fire.

8.20pm: Tharit says the court is holding back the arrest warrant against Thaksin, and will re-consider it on Monday.

8.30pm: Century Park Hotel near Din Daeng T-junction is set on fire.

8.45pm: Fire brigade finally arrives at Central World.

8.50pm: Fire breaks out at Sapan Luang Community on Rama IV road.

10pm: Abhisit goes on TV to ask for people's cooperation and promises severe punishment for those charged with arson and terrorism.

Thursday

2am: Big C Rajdamri near Rajprasong Intersection is set ablaze.

4.20am: Firemen trying to control the blaze retreat because they are shot at.

9am: Bangkok Metropolitan Administration spokesman Thanom Onketphol announces that 35 places across Bangkok had been set on fire, and Central World, Siam Square, Centre One, Bangkok Bank's Sapan Luang branch and Big C Rajdamri continue blazing as firemen are obstructed and attacked every time they to contain the fires.

9.24am: Officials can get into Wat Pathum Wanaram and find six bodies.

9.30am: Protesters in Rajprasong area register at Royal Thai Police headquarters before being sent home to the provinces.

10am: Officials retrieve bodies from Wat Pathum Wanaram for autopsy.

10.30am: 700 protesters evacuated from Pathum Wanaram.

11am: CRES announces it will continue curfew in 24 provinces from 9pm to 5am Thursday to Saturday.

12pm: All protesters at Wat Pathum Wanaram move to the police headquarters.

1pm: Red-shirt leaders Veera Musigapong and weng Tojirakarn turn in at Crime Suppression Division, followed by Kokaew Pikultong.

1.45pm: About 100 red shirts re-group, boo and verbally abuse officers in charge at Centre One after fire is brought under control.

2.30pm: Protesters re-group and burn tyres near Din Daeng Triangle. They also threaten the media. Officials say Centre One is too dangerous, and that firemen were trying to stop the blaze from spreading.

Scientific Crime Detection police officers examine burned areas including Maleenont Building, Stock Exchange of Thailand and Siam Square.

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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[Maestro]

Thailand's only hope lies in political compromise

The redshirts need to disassociate from Thaksin and form ties with government, who must work with moderate leaders

Thitinan Pongsudhirak

guardian.co.uk, Thursday 20 May 2010 17.36 BST

As Thailand picks up the pieces after Bangkok's worst-ever protests and street riots, the country is further away from peace and reconciliation than it was two months ago, when the redshirts under the United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship took to the streets.

The way out of this will require a return to parliamentary and constitutional processes, with revised rules and eligible political players acceptable to all sides. This difficult way forward, towards reconciliation, will require mutual recognition and accommodation between the two main sides.

Read more: www.guardian.co.uk/world/2010/may/20/thailand-thaksin-redshirts-abhisit

-- Guardian 2010-05-20

[Maestro]

Bangkok Grows Calm, but Social Divisions Remain

An anti-government supporter cried while being escorted out of a temple where she was seeking refuge along with hundreds of other protesters in Bangkok on Thursday.

By SETH MYDANS

Published: May 20, 2010

BANGKOK — Two months of tension and violence ended with a whimper on Thursday as the last exhausted group of protesters filed out of a Buddhist temple where they had taken refuge, bewildered and frightened, some in tears.

As they shuffled past a smear of blood on the ground that told of the recent fighting, a line of female police officers in black berets comforted them, touching their shoulders and murmuring: “Don’t be afraid. You’re safe now. Have a safe journey home.”

But it felt, on this morning after a political convulsion unlike anything anyone here has seen, that the country’s future was anything but safe.

Read more: www.nytimes.com/2010/05/21/world/asia/21bangkok.html

-- The New York Times 2010-05-20

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Chaos reigns in North, Northeast

By The Nation

As fires and shooting continued in the capital, chaos also reigned in several North and Northeast provinces yesterday.

A bomb threat to Chiang Mai City Hall prompted the evacuation of officials yesterday morning, while the Khon Kaen waterworks office was closed after red-shirt demonstrators threatened to burn it down.

In Chiang Mai, after receiving a call about a bomb planted on the city hall building's second floor at 10.30am, officials were evacuated and a bomb squad was sent in to inspect the premises. The officials later announced that the suspicious object was not an explosive, as many feared.

Meanwhile, a 100-strong police team tore down the Rak Chiang Mai 51 Group's rally stage in front of Waroros Grand Palace Hotel yesterday, removed some 300 tires used to build a makeshift bunker around the stage and found some 30 Molotov bombs. Nearby, soldiers cleaned the area where demonstrators had burned down a provincial clerk's residence and two fire engines.

In Khon Kaen's Muang district, some 100 red-shirt protesters paraded the body of Songsak Srinongbua, 33, around the city from 11.30am. Songsak was shot dead in a clash on Wednesday at the residence of former transport minister Prajak Nongklaewkla.

Songsak's mother Boonreung, 59, said she wanted to take her son's body back to their village for religious rites, but the red-shirt leaders insisted that she let the body be used to shame the government first.

In Udon Thani, security was beefed up around the city hall after protesters set three buildings ablaze on Wednesday, provincial governor Amnat Phakarat announced yesterday that the damage caused was worth about Bt150 million and that 44 demonstrators had been arrested. Five demonstrators and three officials were also injured in a skirmish on Wednesday evening.

About 30 minutes after the governor's announcement, a bomb squad was alerted to check on a suspicious object found on the ground floor of one of the burned buildings. Yesterday, one of the injured protesters, Ploen Wongma, 40, was pronounced dead at Central Udon Thani Hospital from gunshot wounds in the lung and thighs.

In Ubon Ratchathani, provincial administrative organisation officials were alerted to evacuate and move important documents to a safe place at 11am yesterday after they received a threat that demonstrators would set fire to their office. Earlier yesterday, hundreds of provincial officials and residents gathered to study the damage caused to the Ubon Ratchathani city hall, which was set ablaze by demonstrators on Wednesday afternoon.

In Samut Prakan, two Bangkok Bank ATM machines were burned down on Wednesday evening, reportedly set ablaze by six youngsters, who doused the machines with petrol before speeding away on three motorcycles.

Samrong police inspector Pol Lt-Colonel Prasert Buakhao said he spotted eight youngsters on four motorbikes hurling Molotov bombs at an ATM machine in front of the Bangkok Bank's Samrong branch and speeding away towards Theparak Intersection. The officer managed to grab one suspect, Ekkarin Boonniran, 25.

Meanwhile, when a team of 50 policemen went to search the FM101.25 radio station in Samut Prakan's Muang district, they noticed some youngsters having a drinking party about 10 meters away. Seven suspects were apprehended along with four motorbikes whose license plates were covered, five gallon containers full of petrol, 20 energy drink bottles filled with petrol, four giant firecrackers and a bag of flammable cloth pieces.

Fifteen minutes later, police and two fire engines rushed to put out a fire at a 7-Eleven store and ATM in the Pak Nam area. Witnesses told police that six youngsters on three motorbikes with covered licence plates had shattered the store's window with a rock before hurling in a Molotov cocktail. They also doused the ATM with petrol and set it on fire.

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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OPINION

Stay away from |our city forever

Wednesday will go down as one of the worst days of our lives. Our city was a war zone set ablaze by people on a rampage.

Who would have thought that Bangkok would be destroyed by our own people. People who took up arms and caused chaos and anarchy, and tried to kill fellow citizens to show their power. People who were filled with so much hatred that they simply had no conscience.

One wonders what motivated them to commit such barbaric acts. I've been told of many reasons. Whatever it is, there is absolutely no justification for it. The people who carried out terrorist actions were mercenaries who would do anything for money, which means their employer is the head terrorist.

The people of Bangkok should never forget what happened and should never forgive the person behind it all, as well as his family, cohorts and supporters. I think we know who they are, and should make it clear to them that our city has no place for them.

SUPREECHA D

BANGKOK

Reds may soon realise they have been used

I look at the fires, bombs, looting and destruction and compare it to the relative restraint of the government, and ask "Do the 3,000 or so red-shirt rabble under Thaksin really think the majority wants them to run the country?" How sad the true red shirts, the poor, the farmers, don't realise they've been used for a power grab. They don't realise Thaksin covets power for himself and his greedy brood. Wake up people. Perhaps a coalition without Thaksin could sort out the needs of all.

Remember, Thaksin shopped at Prada in Paris while Bangkok burned on his orders. Now his lawyer claims he's not a man greedy for power.

If that's true Mr Thaksin, then shut up and disappear. Let the nation heal. Get over yourself! How many billions do you need?

TIM DEVLIN,

TORONTO, ONTARIO

Arrest masterminds behind the violence

Thaksin is the mastermind behind the crisis in Thailand. He is the kind of person who loves you if you're on his side, and does everything to destroy you if you're not. He once said any provinces that didn't vote for him would get no special treatment. He always remembers and begrudges. He takes advantage. He talks from both sides of his mouth, with no shame or guilt whatsoever.

There is evidence that he hired armed militias to be part of the red-shirt protestors. But cracking down on the protestors at Rajprasong will play into the hands of the red shirts. Instead, the government should target the ex and current army generals who planned and executed the street battles. These are the rebels who want to make Thailand a failed state. They know the government is weak and too gentlemanly in its conduct.

At the same time they ask the United Nations to intervene. They know that it's difficult to explain and justify the government's conduct to the international audience with the pictures on TV, unless you can prove how cruel the red-shirt masterminds are. How they are willing to sacrifice the country and well-being of their countrymen for their personal goals.

CHOOPONG A.

BANGKOK

Thai kids constantly exposed to danger

The picture of that little child on the front line has gone round the world, and the foreign media have expressed concern and condemnation. Rightly so, but it shows that they know very little about the Thai psyche and customs regarding the safety of their children. That little chap on the front line was in no greater danger of losing his life than all the children you frequently see standing between the front seat and the dashboard of cars, even at high speeds on motorways. The ratio between children travelling in secure seats and those roaming around inside Thai cars must be minimal. There are many other examples of children being subjected to circumstances risking their lives, like being taken onto building sites without any protective measures. Not much point to get over-excited about it. It won't change. Mai pen rai.

HORST BULLINGER

BANGKOK

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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Human rights call for fair treatment of reds

By The Nation

BANGKOK: -- Two local human rights groups yesterday issued an open letter calling for fair treatment of more than 15 red-shirted detainees apprehended during and after a military sweep seizing the Ratchaprasong protest site.

In their statement, the Human Rights Education Group and the Network of Peace and Justice for Siam, said the more than 15 people, whose pictures are attached, "must be regarded those with different political views" and treated under International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which prohibits torture and grants legal rights for release after a detention.

The detainees are also entitled to free or state-provided counselling and their trial are open and under observation by media.

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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Sirikit Center, Khlongtoei subway stations are severely damaged

BANGKOK (NNT) -- The Deputy Governor of the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) says Sirikit Convention Center and Khlongtoei subway stations are severely damaged, with grenade and Molotov cocktails remaining at the venue.

The MRTA Deputy Governor Ronnachit Yamsa-ad cited that the MRTA along with the police had basically investigated the damages at Sirikit Convention Center and Klongtoey subway stations, and found several F-1 grenades, Molotov cocktails, oil soaked clothes and tires in the neighborhoods. Also, glasses around the stations and CCTV cameras were destroyed and escalators burnt.

He said on 21 May 2010 the MRTA together with the Bangkok Metro Public Co Ltd would hold a meeting to assess the damages sustained from the chaos. The MRT subway has suspended its operation since 15 May 2010 with a loss of four million THB a day.

The Advisor to the Bangkok Mass Transit Syatem Public Co Ltd (BTS) Anat Apapirom stated that the company had not yet entered the BTS stations to check damages. The investigation of the BTS can be launched after getting a safety clearance from the Centre for the Resolution of the Emergency Situation (CRES).

Meanwhile, The Bangkok Airways has announced its services for both departure and arrival flights as usual in all international and domestic routes. Passengers can check-in at the company’s counter on the 4th floor of Suvarnabhumi Airport during 06.00-20.30 hrs. Passengers are also advised to spare at least 3 hours before the flight schedule. Further information can be obtained at the call center 1771 or 02 270 6699 during 08.00-15.00 hrs.

-- NNT 2010-05-21

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Restructuring teams geared up to mend damaged Bangkok

BANGKOK (NNT) -- Bangkok Governor Sukhumbhand Paribatra has assigned the Office of Public Works and Town & Country Planning to monitor building collapse after arson attacks across the capital.

Public sabotage and vandalism erupted yesterday after enraged protesters of United Front of Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD) acted out against the core leader’s decision to terminate the rally and surrender themselves to authorities. Fire was set at a total of 35 spots since Wednesday afternoon, resulting in hundred millions of Thai baht estimated as a budget to mend ruined government agencies’ buildings.

Bangkok Governor on Thursday has expressed concerns over buildings that might collapse after long hours of burning, especially at Saladaeng and Chitlom BTS stations. Damages were also reported at the areas around the Victory Monument and the Office of the Narcotics Control Board on Din Daeng Triangle, where officers of Regional Environmental Office and Bangkok Metropolitan Administration were tasked to clear off the areas.

MR Sukhumbhand further stated that around 100 million THB is needed in repairing government’s agency buildings. The Office of Public Works and Town & Country Planning has now declared 28 fire control buildings in order to restructure the urban plan.

Following the Hotline 1555 suspension on Thursday due to the intimidation to bomb and burn down the place, MR Sukhumbhand said the hotline team should be able to resume their operations soon after temporarily relocating to a new office.

Mr Sukhumbhand added that the Diamond Jubilee celebration to mark HM the King´s 60th anniversary of the Royal Coronation will be postponed from 20-11 May 2010 to 26-27 May 2010 at Sanam Sua Pa in Bangkok.

-- NNT 2010-05-21

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Reuters Pessimistic of Thailand's Situation

Reuters news agency has analyzed violent incidents that took place throughout Thailand yesterday as being the beginning of further turmoil to come, saying that the incidents exposed rifts that have continually deepened in Thailand for years.

Reporting on rioting in Bangkok and throughout the northern and northeastern regions of Thailand yesterday, Reuters explained that the violence followed the announcement that core red shirt leaders would submit to arrests.

Analysts of the news agency noted that the arrests of the leaders may have been a negotiated course of action as the red shirts have used the nation’s main commercial district as a bargaining chip for over one month during its demonstration.

The Reuters analysis went on to say that, though a semblance of peace has been restored to the Kingdom, it will likely take up to five years for the entire issue to be concluded.

The news agency said that the incidents that took place yesterday were the result of unattended conflicts that have been apparent in Thailand for years through the cycle of political turmoil and power struggles.

The analysis also indicated that if an acceptable truce cannot be made between the red shirt group and the government before the next election, the poll will likely be ineffective in preventing further protests.

-- Tan Network 2010-05-21

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[george]

All MRT Subway & BTS Skytrain services in Bangkok remain closed until further notice. /via @RichardBarrow

MCOT: #Bangkok reports death toll stands at 52 plus 406 persons injured in clashes between protesters and troops since May 14

08:25 #Bangkok: About 400 patients flock to Chula Hospital on 1st day of reopening; BKK city hall surveys 18 buildings set ablaze in riots

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PTT to Slash Pump Prices by Bt0.50, MRT/BTS Remain Closed Today

PTT, Thailand's oil conglomerate, will slash pump prices by Bt0.50 for all types of fuel except E85.

The change will take effect at 5 A.M. tomorrow morning.

Meanwhile, the underground train service (MRT) and sky train service (BTS) will remain closed for another day today.

-- Tan Network 2010-05-21

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[george]

Bangkok: Chula Hospital in full operation; use Rama4 access from HuaLumpong or Suwintawongse to H. Dunant road; no buses

#Bangkok road closures : Rama 4, Silom (to Naratiwat), North Sathorn, Rajaprarop, DinDaeng, Jaturatit, Ratchprasong, Phayathai (inbound)

Briton In Red Shirt Demonstration Regrets Video Arson Gibe: http://bit.ly/dp08PC

CRES: announcement on TV now

MCOT: At least 7 banks at Bangkok department stores including Bangkok Bank to open Sat-Sun May 22-23: Thai Bankers' Association

TAN: CRES: Troop turning from defensive to offensive due to the confirmed armed force in Silom area

RT @Twitter_Tips: Twitter for iPhone rockets to become number 1 app in the App Store http://j.mp/cPcqrs /via @MrSorn

TAN: CRES: 4 reasons y army need to control Silom: 1.weapon storage 2.several embassies 3.to stop gunshots 4.easier to narrow the area down

MCOT: Central Department Stores in BKK and surrounding provinces except in Chidlom, Silom, Kadsuankaew open from 11am to 6pm

TAN: CRES: More Police and Soldiers to be deployed in various spots of Bangkok to deter arson or any other attacks

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MCOT: Officials at gutted Center One, mall of 300 shops, estimated damage of at least 1 billion baht (about $31 million), 1,000 people unemployed

Officials at gutted Center One, mall of 300 shops, estimated damage of at least 1 billion baht (about $31 million), 1,000 people unemployed

"You can drive all the way up Sukhumwit Rd as far as the Phloenchit Intersection. Rama I Rd after that is restricted" /via @RichardBarrow

[george]

MCOT: Basement of CentralWorld shopping centre smolders; firefighters cannot reach site due to risk of building collapse

MCOT: PTT cuts all oil product prices except E85 by Bt0.50 per litre, effective Saturday

BBC video of #redshirts firing M16's: http://is.gd/cih90 /via @sternos #bangkok

CRES: announcement on TV now

[george]

At least 7 banks at Bangkok department stores including Bangkok Bank to open Sat-Sun May 22-23: Thai Bankers' Association

MCOT: At least 7 banks at Bangkok department stores including Bangkok Bank to open Sat-Sun May 22-23: Thai Bankers' Association

CRES: Troop turning from defensive to offensive due to the confirmed armed force in Silom area

freakingcat: A few taxis and tuk tuks refused to take us to khlong toei...now we found one and try to go to check on our house and cats

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MCOT: Central Department Stores in BKK and surrounding provinces except in Chidlom, Silom, Kadsuankaew open from 11am to 6pm

[george]

TAN: CRES: 4 reasons y army need to control Silom: 1.weapon storage 2.several embassies 3.to stop gunshots 4.easier to narrow the area down

MCOT: Central Department Stores in BKK and surrounding provinces except in Chidlom, Silom, Kadsuankaew open from 11am to 6pm

Central World, #Bangkok: Briton In #redshirt demonstration regrets video arson gibe: http://bit.ly/dp08PC

Thaksin calling for political dialogue, denying involvement in mayhem /via The Nation

CRES: Significant crowds remained near Amarin plaze, Nat'l police headquarters, and in temple. Armed elements were mixed in. /v @terryfrd

CRES: Police will cover outside areas with help from troops. Prevent further incidents of violence and arson. (Enough) /v @terryfrd