The Royal Thai Army has announced a coup d’etat and taken over government.

In a televised statement to the people earlier, the army chief said the military would restore order and enact political reforms after months of disagreement.

Members of the interim cabinet, the leader of the street protestors over the last six months and the leader of the grass roots red shirts have been arrested and detained.

The army also sealed off the venue in Bangkok where political factions had been holding talks for a second day.

Marital law had been declared yesterday in what the army was an attempt to restore order, rather than a coup.

Martial law is in place and provides an enabling framework for the Royal Thai Army to take action it deems necessary to enforce law and order, and instructions can change rapidly.

As a result there is increased military presence in Bangkok and neighbouring provinces.

The British Foreign Office urged tourists to “exercise extreme caution and remain alert to the situation”, but has not issued advice against travel to the region.
Holidaymakers were warned to allow extra time for journeys, including to Bangkok airports.

A FCO statement explained: “The chief of the Royal Thai Army has assured the safety of all foreigners in Thailand.

“A number of media outlets have been taken off air and there is a risk that this could extend to the Internet.

“The military media channels are continuing to broadcast.

“As the situation is evolving you should monitor local news and social media for developments.”

A nationwide curfew has been announced 22:00 to 05:00.

Authorities have advised that the curfew will not apply to those travelling to or from the airport, but departing or arriving travellers should have their passports and tickets.

However, reports suggest Bangkok continues to function as normal with most businesses and offices continuing to operate, as people are able to move around the city freely. 

The Shopping Malls within the city also remain open for business as normal.

The public transport systems including the BTS Skytrain, the MRT Subway and the Airport Rail Link continue to operate as scheduled, as do the rail services and bus links from Bangkok to the provinces.

All areas outside Bangkok and other tourist destinations within Thailand such as Phuket, Samui, Hua Hin, Pattaya and Chiang Mai remain fully operational and are not overly affected.