World

Bangkok: Situation Deteriorates Hospital Evacuates Patients

by Barbara McPherson | April 30, 2010 at 09:25 am

349 views | 18 Recommendations | 3 comments

The situation in Bangkok continues to deteriorate with members of the Red Shirts, United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship(UDD), invading the Chulalonghorn Hospital in downtown Bangkok in search of military whom they claimed were hiding there.

Frightened patients have requested evacuation to other hospitals. To date, more than 1 000 have been moved. The Chulalongkorn Hospital had already closed its out-patient department and is only admitting emergency cases.

About 200 supporters and guards of the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) led by leader Payap Panket searched hospital buildings, claiming it was being used as a hideout by the security forces.

The group later left and threatened to return for a new search at 10am Friday. UDD leaders this morning reprimanded the protesters and said there would be no more raids.

An apology was issued by UDD leader Weng Tojirakarn.

UDD leader Weng Tojirakarn on Friday issued an apology for the raid, describing it as "inappropriate, too much, and unreasonable".

"On behalf of all [UDD] leaders, I apologise to the public and to Chulalongkorn Hospital for the incident," Mr Weng said. "The situation got out of control. It is not our policy to obstruct hospital operations."

Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva condemned the storming of the hospital.

Who Are the Red Shirts?
The Red Shirts in Thailand are called that because of their wearing of red t-shirts during their political action. They have been calling for new elections in Thailand, maintaining that the present government was installed as a result of military action.

Who Are the Yellow Shirts?
These political activists often wear yellow t's when demonstrating, usually against the red shirts. They are viewed as supporters of the present government.

Present Crisis
While Thailand has been experiencing civil difficulties the current crisis in Bangkok began in March with a massive occupation of areas of the city. Since then conflicts between the demonstrators and military have resulted in 27 deaths and many more injured.