RED Shirts flocked to the front of Klong Prem Central Prison to await de facto Pheu Thai boss Thaksin Shinawatra’s release on parole tomorrow (May 11) with police maintaining tight security, Amarin TV said this afternoon.
Groups of Red Shirts from various provinces began arriving today and occupied the area along Ngamwongwan road in front of Klong Prem prison to show support for Thaksin upon being freed on parole tomorrow.
Some set up tents while others brought their mats along to sleep overnight on the pavement. Vendors also set up stalls to sell food, drinks, clothing, and souvenirs while a stage too has been erected for various activities.
Regarding security measures, the Bangkok Metropolitan Police has deployed around 54 riot control officers from the Crowd Control and Protection Division to maintain order from today till noon tomorrow. Security personnel are rotating patrol of the area in three shifts.
Meanwhile, the Department of Corrections has deployed over 50 officers to oversee the area surrounding Klong Prem prison, while also coordinating with and explaining the situation to the Red Shirts, urging them to stay away from the prison fence in order to maintain order and security.
Pol. Sgt Major Pichit Tamool, head of United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship in Chiang Mai, said over 100 Red Shirt supporters departed the northern city in 11 vans and four to five private cars as well as some by train to head for Klong Prem prison to show their support and respect for Thaksin, Naewna newspaper said.
Initially Chiang Mai Red Shirts had planned to gather at Doi Ti, Mueang district, Lamphun province, but this was cancelled and they travelled independently and are set to arrive in front of the prison this evening for a welcome ceremony that would last all night until tomorrow morning.
However they do not anticipate meeting Thaksin in person, perhaps only seeing him wave, as his family and close associates would be waiting to take him home.
The Red Shirts are covering the expenses for this trip on their own with some contributing 400-500 baht each while others who are financially able 1,000-2,000 baht. Those who cannot contribute do not have to pay; it is a form of mutual assistance during the current economic downturn and high fuel prices.
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This and Front Page – Red Shirts in front of Klong Prem Central Prison. Photos – Amarin TV
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