State of emergency will not be lifted whilst protesters remain in Bangkok

According to new reports, more than 500 protesters remained in Bangkok on 15 April 2009, despite a request by leaders of the United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD) to disperse. As a result, the Thai government announced that it will not lift the state of emergency until opposition activity halts entirely, meaning that the state of emergency may extend beyond the 24-48 hours time-frame that was announced on 14 April. The protesters moved to other areas -- including Sanam Luang field and Phan Fah Bridge -- after the Government House was abandoned. More than 100 anti-riot police officers arrived at Sanam Luang during the protests, threatening to use force to break up the illegal gathering. Many UDD activists believe that the government killed protesters but that the media did not report it. All districts of Bangkok remain under intense scrutiny as threats of sabotage have emerged. Nevertheless, transportation routes within the capital continue to open up, with the most recent openings being on Rajdamnone Klang Road and areas surrounding the Makkhawan Bridge near the Health Ministry. On 14 April the Thai government issued arrest warrants for a number of anti-government leaders, including former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Thaksin's personal passport was also revoked, making it more difficult for him to seek asylum outside Thailand. Thaksin, in addition to being charged with inciting political unrest, has already been found guilty of corruption and is considered a fugitive.