17 Oct 2024 | 05:07 AM UTC
Thailand: Land rights group continuing sit-in protest through Oct. 31 outside Government House, Bangkok
Sit-in protest underway at Government House in Bangkok, Thailand, through Oct. 31. Increased security, transport disruptions likely.
Land rights group People's Movement for a Just Society (P-move) is continuing a sit-in protest outside Government House in Bangkok through Oct. 31. Dozens of activists have been occupying the area from Phitsanulok Road to Ratchadamnoen Nok Road since the morning of Oct. 7 to express several demands relating to civil and land rights. Organizers may end the demonstration at short notice if negotiations with officials succeed.
Authorities will likely bolster security at Government House over the coming weeks until protestors leave the protest site. Localized transport disruptions are likely due to police roadblocks surrounding the protest site, including along Phitsanulok, Rama V, and Ratchadamnoen Nok roads. Activists could stage marches or motorcades at short notice to nearby government buildings, such as the United Nations Building, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, and the Ministry of Finance, prompting additional transport disruptions. Clashes between demonstrators and security personnel cannot be ruled out, especially if activists attempt to bypass security barriers or defy orders to disperse. Mass arrests could occur if protesters become overly disruptive or security forces determine demonstrators violate any public gathering permit requirements.
Avoid the protest site due to possible clashes and to minimize travel delays. If violence occurs nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a safe nongovernmental building. Do not attempt to cross roadblocks; plan alternative routes. Heed all official security and transport advisories.
