Violent scuffles erupt as Thai police fires water cannon on defiant protesters
Thai police fired stinging liquid from water cannon at thousands of Thai protesters on Friday (October 16) in the most violent escalation of three months of demonstrations against the government of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha.
The police pushed forward with riot shields and batons to try to disperse the protesters who defied a government ban on gatherings for a second day.
Protesters, shielded under umbrellas, stood firm as water jets hit them with water and a blue liquid containing chemicals which made them sting. Some protesters pushed back, throwing objects and beating the full-geared police.
Youth-led protests have grown into the biggest challenge in years to a political establishment dominated by military figures and the Royal Palace of King Maha Vajiralongkorn.
The king has made no direct comment on the protests.
Until now, police had not used major force to suppress peaceful protests that have drawn tens of thousands of people, although more than 40 demonstrators — including several leaders — have been arrested in the past week.
The government banned political gatherings of more than five people on Thursday (October 15).
Organizers told protesters to disperse more than three hours after they gathered.
(Source: Reuters)
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