Anti-government "Red Shirt" protesters clash with Thai security forces in central Bangkok April 10, 2010. Thai troops fired rubber bullets at opposition demonstrators as they cracked down on the biggest confrontation in the month-long campaign for new elections, witnesses said (Reuters/Damir Sagolj).
(WQ) Who are the Red Shirts? Red Shirts is shorthand for the National United Front of Democracy Against Dictatorship. Their struggle to restore democracy in Thailand and wrestle power away from a dictator (Abhisit Vejjajiva) who seized control in a military coup. Even Buddhist monks have joined in the struggle. Perennial protests went sour as Vejjajiva, tiring of their growing popularity and disruptions in the capital Bangkok, told paramilitary forces to clampdown on public demonstrations.
Thai soldiers attack demonstrators Saturday (4/10/10) in Bangkok. The deployment came after protesters were pushed back by water cannons and rubber bullets from the headquarters of the 1st Army Region(AP/David Longstreath).BANGKOK – Thai soldiers and police fought pitched battles Saturday night with anti-government demonstrators in streets enveloped in tear gas, but troops later retreated and asked protesters to do the same. Ten people were killed, including a Japanese journalist, and more than 500 wounded, according to hospital officials.
The army had vowed to clear the "Red Shirt" protesters out of one of their two bases in Bangkok by nightfall, but the push instead set off street fighting. There was a continuous sound of gunfire and explosions, mostly from Molotov cocktails. After more than two hours of fierce clashes, the soldiers pulled back.
Anti-government demonstrator play into the hands of violent soldiers and police during clash Saturday, April 10, 2010, in Bangkok (AP/Wason Waintchakorn). PHOTOS
Army spokesman Col. Sansern Kaewkamnerd went on national television Saturday night to ask the protesters to retreat as well. He also accused them of firing live rounds and throwing grenades during the fighting. "The security forces have now retreated to a certain extent from the Red Shirts," Sansern said. He said a senior government official had been asked to coordinate with the protesters to restore peace and urged them to back away to avoid more violence. More>>
