18 killed in Thailand protests

Source: PressTV
http://www.presstv.ir/detail.aspx?id=122964&sectionid=351020406


Clashes between demonstrators and security forces in Thailand have left 18 people dead and protesters have called on the king to stop the bloodshed.

The clashes broke out near several government and army buildings in Bangkok on Saturday when government troops tried to disperse protesters, using rubber bullets, tear gas, and water cannons.

Eleven civilians and four soldiers were killed and about 680 people were injured, some by rubber bullets, AFP quoted emergency services as saying.

The protests calling for the return of ousted Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra turned violent despite tight security measures, including the deployment of tens of thousands of troops and armored vehicles throughout the capital.

Angered by the massive presence of soldiers and police forces across the city, the protesters attempted to force their way into a military base, but were driven back by water cannons.

Saturday was the bloodiest day since Thaksin's red-clad supporters began their campaign on March 12.

The twice-elected former premier was ousted in a military coup in 2006 and was later sentenced to two years in prison over corruption charges that many say were trumped up.

However, Thaksin remains extremely popular with the rural poor, who have staged frequent rallies calling for his return to power.

Embattled current Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva offered his condolences over the deaths but refused to give in to the protesters' pressure to stand down.

Early on Sunday, the leader of the anti-government "red shirt" protesters, Jatuporn Prompan, called on Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej to intervene, saying it was the only way to prevent more bloodshed.

The ailing king has no official political role in the country's decision-making process but is seen as a unifying figure. He was able to bring an end to violence during a 1992 uprising by chastising both the military and protest leaders.