Protests threaten to affect airports, train stations and highways

In response to the announcement by authorities in Bangkok on 3 October 2008 that Chaiwat Sinsuwong, a leading anti-government activist, has been arrested and charged with sedition, supporters of the opposition People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) threatened to protest at airports, train stations, highways and city halls throughout the country. According to a lead coordinator of the PAD, protests will be launched at key locations in various provinces to protest the arrest. Emerging reports state that protesters have already begun to gather at the Hat Yai railway station after hearing about Chaiwat's apprehension. Chaiwat is one of nine civilian leaders of the anti-government PAD. Thai court judges have also issued arrest warrants for the eight other activists. Chaiwat was reportedly one of the main organizers of the massive anti-government protests that brought Bangkok to a standstill in late August. Prosecutors told reporters that Chaiwat will face charges of treason, inciting social disorder and disobedience to law enforcement officers.