Thailand clash death toll rises to 16

Bangkok, May 15: The violence between Thailand military forces and anti-government protesters, or the 'Red Shirts', in Bangkok has claimed 16 lives so far.

According to Sky News, emergency service workers said three foreigners were among the wounded after becoming caught up in the clashes.

The report said the injured nationals were from Poland, Canada and Burma, and are among 141 people to have been hurt in the confrontations, which have continued through the night.

Earlier troops opened fire on demonstrators in their fortified rally site in the heart of the city's commercial district.

Soldiers have blocked roads and set up checkpoints to seal off the area around the wider protest site.

The protesters, who are trying to bring down the government of Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, threw stones, used slingshots and launched fireworks at the troops as the two-month standoff descended into more violence.

ANI