Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Warns of Possible Bombings During Anti-Government Protests

Strategic Insights -

As the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) Red Shirts plan to bring down the government of Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjaviva in Bangkok this weekend, Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban has conceded that an intelligence report warns of 30-40 small bombings plotted across the Thai capital. The government has vowed to step up security measures and has prepared safe houses for ministers who may be targeted. The Deputy Interior Minister, Boonjong Wongtrairat, also confirmed the possible bombings in 30-40 spots in Bangkok, with similar threats in the north and northeast provinces.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Thai government has approved the use of the tough Internal Security Act (ISA) for nearly two weeks to maintain law and order in Bangkok and surrounding provinces.
  • A mini-Cabinet of nine ministers has been appointed to be on alert and convene immediately if any incident occurs to evaluate the situation and consider the enforcement of an Emergency Decree.
  • The government has prepared safe houses for ministers who may be targeted and has warned that security forces will immediately disperse protesters who attempt to seize government buildings or Suvarnabhumi Airport, as the Yellow Shirts did in 2008.
  • Ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has incited his supporters to join the protest, but his family members have left Thailand, and all ministers and their families are still in the country, except for Finance Minister Korn Chatikavanij.
  • The government has said that the enforcement of the ISA and 18 related laws will not affect the daily life of the people, but will have an impact on those who cause chaos to the country.

Statistics:

  • 30-40 locations across Bangkok are at risk of possible bombings.
  • Over one million supporters nationwide are slated to join the UDD protest, with 100,000 pickup trucks to transport activists to the capital on Sunday.
  • The Internal Security Act will be in effect from March 11 to March 23.
  • The government has prepared safe houses for 9 ministers and their families.

Sources:

  • Asia Pulse: "Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban on Wednesday"
  • TNA-OANA: "Thailand's Deputy PM Warns of Possible Bombings During Anti-Government Protests"