The Bangkok International Airport (Suvarnabhumi), was attacked this morning around 4:00 local time by a wave of anti-government protesters royalist of the "People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) . They thus significantly disrupted air traffic.
A leader of the protest movement, Mr. Chaiwat Sinswuwong, said: "The PAD has taken full control of the Suvarnabhumi Airport. Any airline wishing to take off or land must obtain permission from the PAD directly.
At least 3,000 tourists, most of whom are foreigners were stranded in terminals because all roads leading to the airport were blocked by protesters.
Later that morning, three explosions were heard. According to a police officer a grenade was launched against the protesters by unknown at Suvarnabhumi Airport, making two serious injuries and two grenades were thrown at the second Bangkok airport (Don Muang) leaving at month 5 wounded.
few hours later the control tower at the international airport was overrun by demonstrators that had the effect of grounded all planes. Some flights were diverted to airports in Chiang Mai and Phuket which are located more than 800 km from Bangkok. The airports are closed for an indefinite period. Protesters dressed in yellow demand the resignation of Prime Minister as a precondition for any negotiations to free the airport.
For his part, Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat said he will hold a special meeting tonight with his government to discuss how to overcome this crisis. The commander of the Army General Anupong Paojinda asked about asked him Prime Minister to resign so that new elections be held. He denied wanting to prepare a new coup that would be devastating in his vis a vis the international community in particular.
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