December 31st, 2006, 18:31
Bangkok Post Breaking news report
BOMB ATTACKS REPORTED IN BANGKOK
(BangkokPost.com)
A number of bombs or grenades have exploded in Bangkok early on New Year's Eve, wounding dozens of people in at least two places.
Explosions occurred near the Klong Toey market, and near the Victory Monument.
The coordinated attacks are unprecedented in Bangkok.
However, political feelings have run high for more than a year, and there have been reports of political violence aimed against the military junta which ousted ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra on Sept 19 - primarily the suspected burning of schools.
The numer and extent of casualties were unknown immediately after the explosions. Graphic footage shown on television showed damaged vehicles and blood-stained streets and pavements.
Except for the insurgency in the four southernmost provinces, there has been no deadly political violence in Thailand for more than 14 years, when a popular protest overthrew the last military government. In that case, the violence was by the government and armed forces.
Martial law was lifted in Bangkok and surrounding provinces a month ago, but the military is authorised to act when necessary.
The junta leader and army commander, Gen Sonthi Boonyaratkalin, is currently out of Thailand, on the Haj in Saudi Arabia, and will not return to Thailand until Thursday.
Officials said Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont was preparing to speak to the press and the nation.
BOMB ATTACKS REPORTED IN BANGKOK
(BangkokPost.com)
A number of bombs or grenades have exploded in Bangkok early on New Year's Eve, wounding dozens of people in at least two places.
Explosions occurred near the Klong Toey market, and near the Victory Monument.
The coordinated attacks are unprecedented in Bangkok.
However, political feelings have run high for more than a year, and there have been reports of political violence aimed against the military junta which ousted ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra on Sept 19 - primarily the suspected burning of schools.
The numer and extent of casualties were unknown immediately after the explosions. Graphic footage shown on television showed damaged vehicles and blood-stained streets and pavements.
Except for the insurgency in the four southernmost provinces, there has been no deadly political violence in Thailand for more than 14 years, when a popular protest overthrew the last military government. In that case, the violence was by the government and armed forces.
Martial law was lifted in Bangkok and surrounding provinces a month ago, but the military is authorised to act when necessary.
The junta leader and army commander, Gen Sonthi Boonyaratkalin, is currently out of Thailand, on the Haj in Saudi Arabia, and will not return to Thailand until Thursday.
Officials said Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont was preparing to speak to the press and the nation.