Expect more attacks

Mr Abhisit said officers were investigating the incident that took place in central Bangkok on January 15, although he did not confirm the specific target or the type of weapon used. -- PHOTO: AP

via CAAI News Media

Jan 21, 2010

BANGKOK - PRIME Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva on Thursday confirmed that Thailand's army headquarters had been attacked last week and warned that more attacks could be expected on government buildings.

Mr Abhisit said officers were investigating the incident that took place in central Bangkok on January 15, although he did not confirm the specific target or the type of weapon used.

The Thai press has widely reported that an M79 grenade was fired at the office of powerful army chief General Anupong Paojinda in the attack. 'I have discussed the incident with Anupong,' Mr Abhisit told reporters, adding that it 'seemed designed to grab media attention. 'Given the timing and place of the attack, it was not aimed at killing anyone,' he said.

'The army has to look at their security precautions and have every agency concerned on alert. I have already told them that this kind of incident would be more frequent from now on, in order to stir up unrest,' he said.

Analysts expect street violence in Thailand to intensify ahead of a court ruling next month on the assets of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, which were seized after he was deposed in a coup in 2006.

Leaders of the Thaksin-loyalist 'Red Shirts,' named after the colour of their tops, say they expect up to one million protesters to join a demonstration in Bangkok ahead of the court's verdict in late February. -- AFP