The Thai government turned to siege tactics yesterday after fruitless efforts to compromise with protesters barricaded in central Bangkok, announcing that the army would limit supplies of water, food and electricity to the protest zone.
Army spokesman Colonel Sansern Kaewkamnerd said security forces would “not use force at this stage,” but his wording left open the possibility of more violence in Thailand’s two-month political standoff if the “Red Shirt” protesters refuse to disperse.
“This is a full-scale measure to limit the freedom of protesters and to close down the area 100 percent, starting at midnight,” Sansern said.
The measures include cutting water, electricity and mobile phone signals to the protest zone and stopping bus, rail and boat services to the area, Sansern said, adding that authorities would also “seal off entrances to the area.”
The announcement came a day after Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva warned protesters who have paralyzed Bangkok’s central business district to leave by yesterday or face consequences that could also affect residents who live nearby.
Security forces may “implement measures that will have an impact on people in the area, not only the demonstrators but also workers and residents,” Abhisit said.
The protest zone spans about 3km² and is bordered by upscale apartment high-rises and office buildings.
Chances of a negotiated settlement to the standoff appeared to be unraveling as the government toughened its tone and protesters vowed not to budge until their demands are met.
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