Sunday Times 2
Thai protesters fired at: Violence on the rise
View(s):BANGKOK, Jan 11 (Reuters) – Seven people were wounded, one seriously, after gunmen opened fire on anti-government protesters in Bangkok early today, heightening fears of more violence when protesters try to “shutdown” the capital next week in their long-running bid to overthrow Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra.
A man holds a poster during an anti-violence campaign in central Bangkok yesterday. Reuters
“Two shootouts occurred early this morning at an intersection near the Khao San Road tourist area. Altogether seven people were injured, most of them anti-government protesters. We are still investigating who the gunmen were,” said national police chief Adul Saengsingkaew.
Today’s incidents follow clashes between government supporters and protesters on Friday outside Bangkok that left at least six people injured.
At a celebration to mark national Children’s Day yesterday Thailand’s army chief, Prayuth Chan-ocha, said he feared an escalation in violence next week.
“I am concerned about security because there will be many people. The violence is increasing…,” said Prayuth.