PM orders tightened security into New Year

General news - Friday December 14, 2007

PM orders tightened security into New Year

Wary of repeat of last year's Bangkok bombs

YUWADEE TUNYASIRI WASSANA NANUAM

Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont has ordered tightened security nationwide into the New Year to ensure stability during the Dec 23 general election and the formation of the new government. At a meeting with senior security officials at Government House, Gen Surayud demanded intelligence reports from the National Intelligence Agency and the National Security Council.

He gave orders for stepped-up security measures and demanded his instructions be followed closely if any serious incidents occur during the period.

''The prime minister is concerned that there may be unexpected incidents, like those that occurred late last year, because this government works amid the conflicting opinions of people, provocation, propaganda and psychological and political attacks,'' said government spokesman Chaiya Yimwilai.

''The prime minister demands a security plan be implemented from Dec 15 until there is a new prime minister and a new government,'' he added.

Last year a series of New Year's Eve bombs went off in Bangkok and neighbouring Nonthaburi, killing three people and injuring about 40 others.

The new government is expected to be formed in January or February.

At yesterday's meeting, security officials based their situation briefing for Gen Surayud on the urban situation, the violence in the far South, protests against the National Legislative Assembly and possible scenarios for Dec 23, the New Year festival and Children's Day.

Some officials suggested the premier should impose martial law if there is a security threat. But Gen Surayud insisted he would instead exercise power under the executive decree on administration in emergency situations. In the event of a serious incident, all security authorities should heed only his orders, issued in his capacity as chairman of the government's anti-terrorism committee.

Places under tight security will include Bangkok, major towns and tourist spots.

In Bangkok, another 1,300 surveillance cameras will have been installed in 10 days, in addition to the 324 already installed in the vicinity of royal residences.

Mr Chaiya denied Gen Surayud's security concerns and instructions implied he expected a serious incident in the near future. Intelligence reports referred only to the potential of provocations and protests, not any bombing, he said. Gen Surayud would simply like security authorities to be ready for any eventuality.

The army has ordered its personnel to be strictly neutral in the poll run-up. Maj-Gen Surasak Kanchanarat, head of the Civil Affairs Department, said army units can promote the election and encourage voter turnout, but are barred from favouring any political party.

Bangkok Post