Thai Protesters Battle Riot Cops

Police post eviction order on 4th day of protest occupation

By Jason Farago, Newser Staff

Posted Aug 29, 2008 7:37 AM CDT

(Newser) – Riot police clashed with protesters in Bangkok as demonstrations against the Thai government continued for a fourth day. Cops posted a court order evicting the People's Alliance for Democracy—a woolly coalition of monarchists, academics, and youth activists—from the lawn of the prime minister's office. Some protesters were detained, but police failed to oust some 4,000 demonstrators. Nine leaders have been charged with insurrection, a crime that carries the death penalty, reports Reuters.

The PAD has barricaded itself behind a wall of razor wire and car tires, and is further protected by golf club-wielding sentries. Outside of Bangkok, protesters blockaded two regional airports and rail workers went on strike, affecting services nationwide. Although Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej is holding firm and the army has remained aloof from mounting tensions, many fear a military action like the 2006 coup that ousted Samak's predecessor, Thaksin Shinawatra.

Anti-government demonstrators push past police barricades today near the Royal Plaza in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo/David Longstreath)

Riot police scuffle with demonstrators outside the government house in Bangkok today. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

Protesters support their leader at a rally at the government House in Bangkok today. (AP Photo)

Riot police scuffle with demonstrators outside the government house in Bangkok today. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

Anti-government protesters wave the national flag yesterday in the compound of the government house in Bangkok, Thailand. (AP Photo)

Riot police scuffle with demonstrators outside the United Nations Building in Bangkok, Thailand, today. (AP Photo/Wally Santana)

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Police post eviction order on 4th day of protest occupation

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MOST POPULAR STORIES

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Bangkok Bomb Raises Stakes in Standoff

Protesters mark 7th day of occupation of Thai PM's office

Thai Protesters Storm PM's Office, TV Station

Monarchists seek to bring down government; army sits out

Gunmen Attack Thai Protest Leader

Supporters say attack that wounded 'yellow shirt' leaders was politically motivated

Protests Return to Bangkok

'Red shirt' demonstrators surround PM's office, demand elections

Grenade Blast Hurts 46 Thai Protesters

PAD blames pro-government forces, says it's willing to die for cause

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