Police confident no need for emergency in city

Police are confident that the political situation in Bangkok will not get out of hand, and there will be no need to impose an emergency decree in the capital. Metropolitan Police Bureau commissioner Adisorn Nonsi said yesterday there was no political movement threatening public safety in Bangkok. Intelligence reports indicated no unusual signs of escalating violence.

He was commenting in response to a warning given by some political observers about possible unrest in Bangkok after the Songkran festival. The likelihood of a court ruling forcing the main political parties to dissolve, and dissatisfaction in some quarters with the draft charter could turn up the political heat.

Fears of clashes between authorities and political groups, some of whom may be mobilised from the provinces, have heightened.

Pol Lt-Gen Adisorn said police were looking closely at some protest groups and legal action would be taken against any elements who made provocative remarks that could lead to confrontation.

Plain-clothes police were also working undercover among protesters looking for activity which could be a risk to security.

Pol Lt-Gen Adisorn said authorities would do their best to take a soft line on the demonstrations.

Bangkok Post

Last Updated : Saturday April 21, 2007