Thailand's military tightens grip

Thailand's military tightens grip

Gen Sonthi appeared in front of portraits of the king and queen
Tanks in Bangkok Thai military leaders have begun consolidating their hold on power after staging a coup while Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was abroad.

Martial law has been declared, with large gatherings of people and critical news reporting banned. Mr Thaksin's deputy and chief aide, Chidchai Vanasathidya, has been taken into army custody. Army chief Gen Sonthi Boonyaratglin said in a TV address that the coup was necessary to unite the country.

The military had no intention of holding onto power, he added.
The coup leaders have announced that regional army commanders will take charge of areas outside the capital, Bangkok.

more : http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/5362228.stm