State of Emergency to be extended

Thai officials reported that the state of emergency in Bangkok will be extended due to ongoing security concerns. Authorities cited the possible resumption of anti-government protests and the 17 April shooting of a protest leader as the reason for the extension. Under the state of emergency, gatherings of more than five people are forbidden, news reports that could incite protests are banned and the military can intervene to prevent unrest. A government spokesperson stated that the emergency rule will be lifted as soon as the security risks are reduced. Meanwhile, "red-shirt" protest leaders have announced that they will hold a mass rally on 30 April in Nakon Ratchasima, also known as Khorat, which is located approximately 178 mi/286 km northeast of Bangkok. The group indicated that demonstrators will not wear the red shirts to identify themselves, and the protest will remain peaceful.