Bangkok Red-Shirt Rally - Live Friday

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Normalcy slowly returning to Bon Kai

Bon Kai residents on Friday started to clean up their homes and city cleaners were washing the streets and removing debris caused by violence and riots since Wednesday.

The scene of intense fighting between the security forces and the armed reds happened along Rama IV Road from the Thai-Belgium overpass to Chua Phlerng Road.

Roads in the area were littered with burned tyres, potholes caused by M-79 grenade attacks and debris from disbanded barricades.

The part of Rama IV at Bon Kai was still closed to traffic pending the completion of the clean-up operations.

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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[Thaivisa News]

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

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

CRES: Army waited 4 ppl to leave before clearing area, wanted 2 avoid armed confrontation, causing deaths 2 innocent protestors /v @terryfrd

CRES: Arson began, tried to get fire fighters there, but couldn't /via @terryfrd

CRES: Clearing area now, but not easy because explosives, gas cannisters, etc remain. Bldgs 2 be searched. Take 1 - 2 more days /v @terryfrd

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

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AFP: Secret detention of Thai protesters could bring abuses: HRW

AFP: A leading international human rights agency expressed alarm Friday that Thai authorities have used...(1/2)

AFP: ...a "draconian" emergency decree passed during political violence to hold prisoners in secret detention (2/2)

AFP: "Secret detention sites and unaccountable officials are a recipe for human rights abuses," said Elaine Pearson, Asia director for HRW

AFP: "Those arrested should be promptly brought before a judge and charged with a criminal offence or released," she added

MCOT: Air pollution from Red Shirt supporters' tyre burning not exceeding safety limit, said Pollution Control Department

Boat service on Klong San Saeb will resume its service on Monday May 24 from Wat Sriboonruang to Asoke Pier /via @ajnello @veen_NT

Bangkok quiet so far this morning. Officials say three dozen buildings damaged by fire. /via @sarasidnerCNN

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AOT President: transportation ready for outbound passengers

BANGKOK: -- Airport of Thailand (AOT) President Nirand Pisutha-arnond affirmed transportation is provided for arriving passengers at Suvarnabhumi International Airport, with Suvarnabhumi taxis around the clock and newly operating Airport Express buses that run during curfew hours along the Sukhumvit, Satchada and Silom routes.

Mr Nirand said that for those who are concerned about getting out of the airport during the curfew hours of 9pm to 5am, passengers may bring a copy of their ID cards to have the stamps from the AOT as a guarantee. AOT hotline number 021321888 is also open around the clock.

The AOT president added that the Suvarnabhumi airport is maintaining its level 3 of security measures.

-- Tan Network 2010-05-21

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Road closures: Rama4, Silom(until Naratiwat), N Sathorn, Rajaprarop, Din Daeng, Jaturatit, RajaPrasong, Phayathai(inbound) /via @tulip_Oum

An entrance that would scare off many civilians, entrance to Ngam Duppli: http://twitpic.com/1pk9q1 /via @journotopia

MCOT: Bangkok accelerates risk-prone gutted buildings damage survey: http://bit.ly/dwZdbl

The "Thai Crisis Snapshot" Theory (Fascinating study about Twitter & Wordles) http://bit.ly/9YznHa /via @RichardBarrow

CRES: Announcement on TV with Panitam now.

CRES: 1) Ground clearance work done and CRES is working on 15 buildings in the area inc 2 hotels in Rajdamri and 2 hosptials /v @veen_NT

CRES: 2) Sansern expected the clearance to complete at 3pm and CRES will be able to hand the work over to BMA at 6pm. /via @veen_NT

CRES: 3) CRES is speeding up the work so that public transportation could be resumed in Rajprasong areas. /via @veen_NT

CRES: 4) Govt has set up a centre to relieve those who affected by the rally and riots which will start at 3pm today /via @veen_NT

CRES ended its pres conference: - as always Panitan said govt confirms its commitment to bring Thailand back to normalcy. /via @veen_NT

PM will give an announcement on TV in about an hour from now. - CRES /via @veen_NT

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Death toll from May 14 rises to 52: BMA emergency centre

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration's Emergency Health Service Centre announced Friday that 52 people were killed in political violence since May 14.

It said 407 other people were injured during the period.

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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CRES: more security personnel to be dispatched to supervise various areas of Bangkok

In its latest announcement at 10am, the Center for the Resolution of the Emergency Situations (CRES) clarified its operations in Silom and Lumpini areas as well as announced that more security personnel are to be dispatched to supervise various areas of Bangkok to deter arson attacks and violence.

CRES pointed out 4 reasons why the operation is focusing on Silom area; 1. it is now confirmed to be a site for UDD guards to store weapons 2. there're many embassies in the area 3. it is where the gunshots come from 4. narrowing down the operation scope in Silom area would make it easier for the troops to take control of the situation.

Meanwhile, 4 units of troops are deployed in these areas as well; Rama IV (Rajdamri to Saratom Roads), Pathumwan, Ploenchit and Rajprarob. All units except in Rama IV are immobile so as to avoid any possible clashes.

CRES also clarified that its operations have turned from defensive to offensive, as peaceful protesters are going back home now and only armed hardcore ones are left.

-- Tan Network 2010-05-21

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MCOT: Army chief Anupong signs order, banning Red Shirt leader Jatuporn from leaving country.

Sansern: Public services: Water, Electricity & Public Transport (including BTS & MRT) will resume operation within today /via @tukky_NT

Channel 3 has just resumed its broadcasting since its office on Rama IV was attacked on May 19. /via @nationnews

Victory monument bus line 29, 34, 39, 95 and 59 run until 6pm. /via /via @veen_NT @news1005fm

"can someone explain why Jatuporn has to be banned from leaving the country...isn't he in custody?" /via @asiaex

Weapons & ammo found during search of Wat Pathum in Red Zone: http://tweetphoto.com/23280294 /via @Bancha_nna @RichardBarrow

For any one wondering, Jatuporn is an MP, he is immune by law.

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Ad-hoc Units to Patrol Bangkok to Prevent Crimes/arsons

Ad-hoc units will be set up to patrol the streets of Bangkok in at-risk areas. The units will be comprised of officials from the police, military and disaster prevention agency.

-- Tan Network 2010-05-21

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CRES: Govt Committed to Prosecute Wrongdoers and Rehabilitate Thailand

During an official announcement by the CRES at 11 A.M., Dr. Panitarn Wattanayakorn had reiterated the government's commitment to prosecute wrongdoers who were involved in various acts of violence and attacks during the past week. He's also reiterated that the government is also committed to help Thailand heal and restore normalcy to the Kingdom.

PM Abhisit Vejjajiva is expected to make a national TV address at around noon. He's expected to reveal the details of a 'reconciliation' plan that will allow Thailand to move forward politically.

-- Tan Network 2010-05-21

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Free services to send red shirts home completed

Thousands of red shirts from the Rajprasong rally site have been sent back home by free bus services, Transport Company president Wuthichart Kalayanamitr said on Friday.

Most of the red shirts returned to Khon Kaen, Mahasarakham, Kalasin, Udon Thani, Roi Et, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phrae, Phayao and Nan.

The state-controlled company provided air-conditioned buses, each of which had two drivers to ensure safety. The buses made rest-stop for free meals enroute to the destination.

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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CRES announces it has done clearing streets around Rajprasong

The Centre for Resolution of Emergency Situation announced Friday morning that its security forces have completed clearing streets around Rajprasong.

Now, the officials are checking 15 buildings in the area including 2 hotels in Rajdamri and 2 hospitals..

CRES spokesman Sansern Kaewkamnerd said he expected the clearance to complete at 3pm and CRES will be able to hand the work over to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration for further cleaning of the streets at 6pm.

He said the CRES is speeding up the work so that public transportation could be resumed in Rajprasong areas.

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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[Thaivisa News]

Thaksin calling for political dialogue: http://bit.ly/9F9R7k /via @nationnews

One of the many destroyed ATM's at Rama 4, Khlong Toei: http://twitpic.com/1pkssz /via @freakingcat

"Windows smashed, escalators burnt, MRT Khlong Toei vandalized" http://twitpic.com/1pkul3 /via @freakingcat

Correction: Sansern earlier said all public transport resume by 2day, but BTS confirmed they will not for today and tomorrow /via @tucck_NT

Thai Turmoil 'disastrous' For Tourism: Finance Minister: http://bit.ly/bkyjDS

Thaksin Calls For Political Dialogue, Denies Involvement In Mayhem: http://bit.ly/9FP2rb

TAN: BTS suspends its services for one more day tomorrow (May 22nd) /via @BTS_SkyTrain

"A completely vandalized & looted 7/11 at Bon Kai. I Guess Reds don't need convenient stores" http://twitpic.com/1pkxdd /v @freakingcat

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Govt sets up rally relief centre

The Centre for Resolution of Emergency Situation announced Friday that the government has set up a relief centre to help those affected by the rally and riots in Bangkok.

Deputy PM's Secretary-General Panithan Watanayakorn said the centre would start its operations at 3 pm Friday.

He said PM Office's staffs will help register the affected people.

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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CRES sets up rapid respond units to help people

Deputy PM's Secretary-General Panithan Watanayakaorn said Friday that the Centre for Resolution of Emergency Situation has set up rapid respond units to help the people in case of emergency.

Each unit is comprised of troops, police and civilians, who are rescue workers.

The rapid respond units would rush the scene when the people call for help or when there is more violence, Panithan said.

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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Various kinds of weapons found at Pathum Wanaram temple, 2 UDD Guards hiding there also arrested

After evacuating former protesters taking refuge at the Pathumwanaram Temple, security forces have cleared the grounds of the temple.

400 M60 bullets and various kinds of weapons were reportedly found, along with 2 UDD guards suspected of bombings at the residence of former prime minister Banharn Silapa-archa.

Wife of one of the Redshirt leaders Kwanjai Praipana has also been found at the temple.

Meanwhile, Dr Khunying Porntip Rojanasunan, Director of the Central Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice, pointed out during her initial forensics investigation that it is likely the 6 deaths from Pathumwanaram attack could be aimed directly at their chests.

-- Tan Network 2010-05-21

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Sansern says public utilities services around Rajprasong may resume Friday

Col Sansern Kaewkamnerd, the spokesman of the Centre for Resolution of Emergency Situation, said water and power services around Rajprasong area may be resumed later Friday.

He said public transport in the area may also be allowed Friday.

The officials are speeding up the works so that the services could be resumed he said.

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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Some banks to resume operation of branches in shopping malls this weekend

Around seven banks will resume operation of their branches located in the department stores on Saturday, according to the Thai Bankers' Association.

Among them are Bangkok Bank, Krung Thai Bank, Kasikornthaibank, Thanachart Bank, TMB Bank, Siam Commercial Bank, and Siam City Bank.

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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[Thaivisa News]

"Tesco Lotus - a very sad sign" http://twitpic.com/1pkziq /via @freakingcat

"some areas such as saladaeng still not completely safe" /via @vaitor

"Engineer Institution of Thailand warns motorists & peds 2 avoid passing gutted Central One for fear of the building collapse" /v @veen_NT

"Journos FYI there was no access past 4 seasons about half an hr ago due to the bomb squad being active" /via @seacorro

"Maneeya being used as storage area for everything found at rally site. Khunying Pornthip there now" /via @RichardBarrow @thaicam

MCOT: CentralWorld expected to complete restoration in six months, ZEN department store to be rebuilt /via Central executive

"The 2 suspects captured at Pathum Temple also match sketched images of those who raided Chula Hosp" /via @veen_nt @Nattha_tvthai

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CRES: electricity, water, other infrastructure services to resume by today, while BTS remains close

CRES vows to get infrastructures and public services frozen during the clash in Bangkok to resume their operations by today. Power and water cuts have been fixed in many areas since yesterday.

BTS Skytrain, however, suspends its services for one more day, May 22nd.

-- Tan Network 2010-05-21

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Rajaprasong cleanup http://twitpic.com/1pl5m0 /via @newley

"Searching cars in Maneeya carpark. A bit close to home...relaxed atmos, tho" http://yfrog.com/0xh83rj /via @thaicam @RichardBarrow

Central World http://twitpic.com/1pl5qc /via @newley

"I wanna say big Thank you to those people cleaning our city now. They may need cold water to work under this hot weather" /via @roseqrala

TAN: USEmbassy Visa Services Closed Monday May 24 /via USEmbassyBKK

"how many animals at central world have died? apparently was a special display of penguins and rays? anybody know anything?" /v @AlexBkk3

"In a #Bangkok Buddhist temple, the groans of the wounded shot seeking sanctuary" by @markmackinnon http://bit.ly/cBdhSp /v @RichardBarrow

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102 arrested for crimes so far, while police continue to clear Bangkok streets

102 crime arrests have been reported by the police. Many were caught for theft and vandalising properties, while some were arrested carrying arms.

In a related development, 36 UDD members have been filed criminal charges, while 8 UDD leaders are being interrogated for violating the Emergency Decree and terrorism.

-- Tan Network 2010-05-21

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Former protesters starting to arrive home

Many former protesters have reportedly arrived in their provincial hometowns. UDD members in Chiangmai this morning welcomed their fellow Chiangmai locals back from the protest in Bangkok.

-- Tan Network 2010-05-21

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Nov 14 poll date should be postponed: Banharn

Chart Thai Pattana Party chief adviser Banharn Silapa-Archa on Friday called for the postponement of the November 14 election date on the ground that the country needed time to recover from the mayhem.

"Time is needed for the rehabilitation of victims," he said.

Banharn said the damages were beyond his expectations and that the rehabilitation work should be completed before the holding of the fresh elections.

He urged the government to carry on implementing the road map for reconciliation in order to overcome the predicament.

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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TAN: MRT in renovating process after 3 stations were attacked. Expected to resume services Sunday, the same day as BTS. /via @js100radio

PM on TV now

PM: Govt is terribly sorry for all the losses and feel grateful for understanding and cooperation. /via @veen_NT

PM: will continue with five-point reconciliation plan, with participation of all groups of people /via @veen_NT

PM: (in Thai) We live under the same roof and our house has been set on fire. /via @veen_NT

PM: CRES has put all effort to work since May 19 and the situation is now improved. /via @veen_NT

PM: We've separated those who burn our home and they will be punished. We will rebuild our house and make everyone living happily again.

MCOT: BTS Skytrain, MRT subway remain closed Saturday; Subway expected to resume service on Sunday

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All banks resume normal operations on Monday

By The Nation

All commercial banks will resume normal operations on Monday, May 24, said Thai Bankers Association President Prasarn Trairatvorakul.

Nine commercial banks will resume the operations of their branches located in shopping centres on Saturday.

The banks are Bangkok Bank, Krung Thai Bank, Kasikornbank, Siam Commercial Bank, Bank of Ayudhya, TMB Bank, Siam City Bank, Thanachart Bank and Thai Credit.

Prasarn noted that the branches could be closed earlier than usual, depending on the circumstances.

For today, nearly all banks remain closed. Clients are urged to use services through other channels, like ATM, Internet banking and mobile phone banking.

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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Prosecution of reds involving in mayhem

Police on Friday brought more than 70 red shirts to the Southern Bangkok Court for a remand hearing on charges related to the violations of the emergency rule.

About 60, comprising 50 men and 10 women, were named suspected accomplices in the riots spreaded across the capital on Wednesday following the end of the Rajprasong rally.

The other 13 were arrested when fully armed with Home-made Bombs and weapon-like devices.

Since Wednesday, the suspects have been detained under the police's custody at the Naresuan base in Cha-am, Phetchaburi along with the eight red-shirt leaders, including Veera Musigapong.

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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Man found suffocated on fourth floor of CentralWorld

Fire fighters found a body of a man on the fourth floor of CentralWorld at 12:30 pm Friday.

He was not burnt but apparently died of suffocation.

He was believed to be around 25 to 30 years old.

His body was found in a mobile phone shop.

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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13 Khon Kaen reds get suspended jail term

The Khon Kaen Provincial Court on Friday found 13 red shirts guilty of violating the emergency rule before granting leniency to suspend their jail term for two years due to the lack of prior record.

The 13 convicts will have to pay Bt20,000 fine each before being released.

They were rounded up by police following the dispersal of a rally at a local park in front of the provincial hall.

Of the 13, three are concurrently suspects involved in two arson attacks at the provincial hall and at the local NBT television stationl. They will remain in the police's custody pending a separate trial.

-- The Nation 2010-05-21

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[Thaivisa News]

"Man found suffocated on fourth floor of CentralWorld" http://bit.ly/91ZnaI /via @nationnews

"Large cloud of smoke seen over Bangkok, something is burning. Seeing from Ekkamai, not sure what is out there" /v @Kerm99 (anyone1 else?)

"Sakkarat Piamworanan made this comparison on FB - Bangkok and LA (Residential Evil)" http://tweetphoto.com/23294373 /via @pated @veen_NT

6 confirmations of a possible fire in Bangkok (14:30). Not sure how large or specific location. Waiting for pictures.

"not sre if it shows up on pic,left behind bldg under construction covered in green" http://twitpic.com/1plpsg /v @lindavanderwijk (Asok)

"smoke rising east of ratchada/lad prao intersection" http://twitpic.com/1plpzu /via @p_j_gill (Lad Prao 15)