PM orders tighter security for Royal funeral
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has ordered that security be strengthened before and during the Royal funeral of the late HM King Rama IX after intelligence agencies reported that some groups may try to cause trouble during the ceremony.
The groups causing concern operate from overseas, the three deep southern provinces, and anti-monarchy groups as well as general disturbance networks.
Prayut has assigned the military, police, the National Security Council and the National Intelligence Agency to gather information and prepare for any attempt to cause trouble.
It is estimated that about 250,000 people will attend the ceremony held at Sanam Luang.
Prayut on Monday is in the United States for an official visit.
Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwan meanwhile chaired a meeting of authorities involved in organising the Royal funeral.
He said he ordered authorities to be fully aware to prevent any chaos and ensure that the ceremony proceeds safely.
“I’m concerned with any possibility of chaos that might happen before and during the funeral. I have ordered full reinforcements after receiving information that there are some ill-intentioned groups inside and outside the country that may be prepared to create a disturbance during the event,” he said.
The Royal funeral of the late King is one of the greatest events in the world, therefore we will host it with our best efforts, Prawit said.