Shock coup in Thailand

An overnight military coup occurred in Thailand on Tuesday (September 19th) and Thai people awoke this morning to military rule and martial law.

The country's prime minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, was in New York preparing for a speech to the United Nations. His deputy and chief aide, Chidchai Vanasathidya, was "invited to stay" at a military installation.

Army leadership figures, including general Sonthi Boonyaratglin, made a public address in which they confirmed a coup had occurred to displace the current government. Tanks are located around Bangkok and military leaders will control areas outside the capital.

In the television address general Boonyaratglin noted that the military would not stay in power: "I would like to assure that the council has no intention of running the country by itself and will return power, under the constitutional monarchy, to the people as soon as possible."

However, currently the news channels BBC World and CNN have been taken off the air. Footage of the Thai royal family and patriotic songs has been broadcast instead. In addition, all assemblies over five people have been banned, with jail sentences for those who disobey.

The coup leaders have visited King Bhumibol Adulyade and assured him of their loyalty, it is not known what the usually background figure will do to remedy the situation.

The Foreign Office issued advice for any British tourists currently in Thailand, or travelling to the country in the near future.

A statement commented: "The British embassy in Bangkok is closely monitoring the situation. If you are currently in Bangkok, you should avoid moving around the city wherever possible.

"If you intend to travel to, or are currently in Thailand, you should monitor all available information on the local situation and keep in contact with your tour operator. You should also avoid any demonstrations and large crowds."