BANGKOK, 12 January 2014 The police will carry no weapons during the planned mass rally on Monday, while members of the public have been asked not to join the People’s Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) protests.
Pol Maj Gen Adul Narongsak, Deputy Metropolitan Police Chief, admitted that he was worried about the current political standoff, but affirmed that police would be able to keep the situation on Monday under control. He also assured that police will only be carrying riot shields to protect themselves, as they have been ordered not to use weapons against the protesters.
Pol Maj Gen Adul also asked members of the public to reconsider joining the rally for their own safety because there had been a report that a third party would try to instigate violence.
Meanwhile, Deputy Army Spokesman Col Winthai Suvaree revealed that the Center for Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO) had asked the army for reinforcement in 20 locations to help police officers handle the anticipated huge crowds.
On January 13, security will be particularly tightened at important places such as the Government House, Suvarnabhumi International Airport, and TV stations.
