BANGKOK, 25 April 2010 (NNT) – Public Health Minister Jurin Laksanawisit has asked the anti-government United Front of Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD) and all other groups of demonstrators gathering near hospitals to facilitate the operation of ambulances and medical personnel.

The minister sought the cooperation from all the protestors not to impede the operation of ambulances which have to run against time to bring patients to the hands of doctors regardless of political groups. He challenged punitive action if the ambulances are not used for medical purposes.

Some of the ambulances have been alleged to be used to help the authorities transport weapons for the crowd dispersal mission.

Mr Jurin added that the Emergency Medical Institute of Thailand has prepared measures to handle emergency needs around the clock at four to five spots in the capital city, especially around the rally site while more ambulances from nearby provinces will be called in to support the operation.

NNT