Thai security forces say will block Red Shirt march on Silom

Bangkok, Apr.18 (ANI): A proposed opposition Red Shirt march to occupy Silom Road or other Bangkok thoroughfares will be blocked CRES spokesman Sansern Kaewkamnerd said.

He said the panel has instructed security units to strengthen their forces to block United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) demonstrators from moving to other areas.

The Bangkok Post said that the Red Shirts are reportedly planning to rally on Silom and blockade the Bangkok Bank's head office to step up pressure against the government.

UDD leaders Suporn Atthawong and Kwanchai Praipana have vowed to lead the protesters to Silom if the plan is endorsed.

Bangkok Bank is a prime target of the Red Shirts' attack and several of its branch offices have been attacked with grenades.

Colonel Sansern said: "They will be blocked. And if needs be, use of force will be deployed. But we will not overdo it."

Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban, who still retains the job as head of CRES, said the military's increased involvement had been forced by a change in the situation.

City police spokesman Pol Maj Gen Piya Uthayo said police are now responsible for stepping up security at the rally site and preventing violence following the restructuring of the CRES. (ANI)