Concrete barriers set up at Parliament today
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Security at Parliament and Government House beefed up Monday as a precaution against protesters once the controversial amnesty bill is tabled next Wednesday.
Concrete barriers were placed at all entrances and exits of Government House in a move to keep out the Pitak Siam group, which is expected to show up on Sunday morning.
One police truck was also seen parked nearby along with a vehicle armed with a long-range acoustic device emitting ear-splitting sirens. Two police tents were also set up and a photograph of the group’s leader was posted on a metal barricade near one of the tents. However, police say it is not a “wanted” poster.
Deputy House Speaker Wisut Chainarun said 700 police officers would initially deployed near Parliament on the days the controversial bill is deliberated. Also, all cars and bags entering the compound would be closely searched.
Suwichag Nakwatchrachai, Parliament secretary general, said 10 members of staff would be on standby in two shifts to escort out those who refuse to follow the House rule.
Separately, a red-shirt group – calling themselves People’s Radio for the People Group – set up camp outside the Parliament complex yesterday in order to “protect” lawmakers from anti-government protesters.
The group set up a large tent and billboards carrying messages supporting the government’s decision to deliberate amnesty bills. There were no police officers present at the site as of press time.
Meanwhile, Deputy House Speaker Charoen Jankomol confirmed that the amnesty bill proposed by Pheu Thai MP Worachai Hema will be considered next Wednesday.
