Rights NGO releases figures on detainees

The non-governmental organisation has been collecting data in relation to rights violations, including the suppression of people’s freedom of expression, since the coup and released the figures yesterday to mark the first anniversary of the military’s power seizure today. Since May 21 last year, the report said the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) had summoned at least 751 individuals. 

The summonses have come through different channels, including the broadcasting of names via radio, television and other means, including invitations for coffee or meals with Army officers.

Those summoned or contacted by the NCPO include 278 people who have affiliations with Pheu Thai Party and the red-shirt movement; 41 who are linked with the Democrat Party and the People’s Democratic Reform Committee; and 176 academics, activists, students, writers and journalists. 

Since the military takeover, at least 33 public gatherings, including seminars and symposiums related to history and politics, were banned while at least 12 scheduled public gatherings on human rights and land rights were prevented. 

The organisation also noted a spike in lese majeste cases since the coup, with 46 individuals being charged.