New wave of mass protests stage in Bangkok

Despite the state of emergency imposed in Bangkok and a ban on gatherings of more than five people, thousands of demonstrators gathered at the Ratchaprasong intersection in the Thai capital business center, Report says, citing the RIA Novosti. They demand the release of comrades detained in the morning and the resignation of Prime Minister General, Prayuth Chan-Ocha.

Under the new emergency measures, gatherings of five or more people have been banned, as publishing news or online information that “could create fear” or “affect national security.” It follows a significant rally on Wednesday, in which protesters repeated calls for democratic reforms, including the country’s powerful monarchy.

Early on Thursday morning, riot police advanced on protesters outside Government House, where they had camped to demand the resignation of prime minister Prayuth Chan-Ocha.

Protest leaders are among those arrested, including human rights lawyer Anon Nampa and prominent student activists Parit Chiwarak, known as Penguin, and Panusaya Sithijirawattanakul, known as Rung.