US warns its citizens to avoid rally sites
The US Embassy in Bangkok has warned its nationals to avoid areas of rallies and exercise caution if in the areas of large gatherings or demonstrations.
In its statement issued on yesterday and posted on its website, the embassy suggested them to be alert and pay attention to local news media reports.
"Domestic political activists in Thailand are holding large demonstrations at several sites throughout Bangkok. These demonstrations may continue in the coming days, including at several Thai government facilities in areas within and outside of Central Bangkok," read the statement.
It said violence, including gunshots, was reported on the night of November 30 and morning of December 1 in the area of Ramkhamhaeng University in the Bang Kapi district and at least two persons have been reported killed and several dozen have been reported injured. Police have used tear gas and other measures to protect government facilities at several locations in Bangkok.
Moreover the Thai government have recommended that residents remained at home from 10pm of Dec 1 through 5am of Dec 2.
"Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You should avoid areas of demonstrations, and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations," read the statement.
