Thai Army official concerned of possible clashes between two groups of protesters

BANGKOK, 22 January 2011 (NNT) – The First Army Area Commander has warned security officers to be vigilant for possible clashes between protesters of the United Front of Democracy Against Dictatorship and their opposing group on Sunday.

First Army Area Commander Lt.Gen.Udomdet Sitabutr said the police were fully ready to provide security for the protest of the UDD on 23 January with support from army forces in case the police needed assistance. However, the army area commander has expressed concerns over the protesters’ plan to relocate from Ratchaprasong Junction to the Democracy Monument for fear of clashes between them and the opposing group gathering around the Government House which is near the monument. Lt.Gen.Udomdet therefore advised the security officers to make sure the UDD protesters stay in their route away from the opposing group.

NNT