Bangkok not under control

Arsonists and looters were on the loose and 'the government is calling on you to stop those actions otherwise you will face decisive measures.'

BANGKOK - THAILAND'S government said on Wednesday that parts of Bangkok were still not under control and that looters and arsonists were at work after an offensive that shut down an anti-government rally.

'Tonight will be another night of suffering, especially for Bangkok residents,' said government spokesman Panitan Wattanayagorn as the city prepared for its first curfew in 15 years.

Mr Panitan said the army campaign, which has left at least five people dead, had secured the critical Rajaprasong intersection and the Lumpini district which Red Shirts had occupied for six weeks. 'In the operation the government took control of Rajaprasong and Lumpini but there are still several areas where the government has to continue operations,' he said.

Mr Panitan said that arsonists and looters were on the loose and 'the government is calling on you to stop those actions otherwise you will face decisive measures.' 'The government calls on everyone who is carrying out attacks to stop that action because their leaders have already surrendered and agreed to enter into national reconciliation,' he said. 'Everyone, including the government, will enter into the judicial system.'

Mr Panitan urged all Bangkok residents and visitors to stay inside as the city goes into a curfew starting at 8pm and ending at 6am Thursday. He also said that the government had ordered special TV programming on all free-to-air channels so that authorities could give information about the development of the security operation.

'Soon all Thai TV channels will adjust to special programming to allow the government to communicate with the people so that they can learn how the situation is developing,' he said.

Mr Panitan said that anyone who has to travel overnight, including foreigners trying to reach the airport, should carry their passports and tickets in order get through checkpoints. -- AFP