Police Clash Injures Anti-IMF Protesters in Bangkok
Anti-IMF demonstrators clashed with police in Bangkok after officers tried to seize a symbolic banner, leaving several protesters injured. The protest network said the police acted beyond their authority under the Public Assembly Act and demanded an official explanation. They warned they would continue peaceful activities and hoped police would ensure safety and prevent further violence.
At 2:00 p.m. on October 15, 2069, reporters described the atmosphere of the People’s Network Against World Bank-IMF rally at the Rama 4 intersection heading toward Ratchadaphisek Road, where protesters had gathered to oppose the annual World Bank and International Monetary Fund meeting held at the National Convention Centre. Amrin Saichan, legal team of the network, together with representatives from the EnLAW Foundation, read a statement clarifying and condemning the morning clash between police and protesters over the symbolic banner release, saying it caused injuries. They said police duty under the Public Assembly Act is to facilitate and manage traffic, not to use violence or block freedom of expression, and that the officers’ actions exceeded their authority and clearly violated citizens’ rights. The network said they had not received any explanation or apology from police and demanded the Royal Thai Police formally clarify under which legal provision the police seized the banner and detained protesters, to set a standard and prevent repeat violence. EnLAW and the network affirmed the march and rally were conducted in full compliance with the 2015 Public Assembly Act, having notified police in advance at Tha Ruea Station and negotiated route conditions from the Customs Department to near the centre, which police had acknowledged, permitted, and were aware of the planned symbolic expression. However, when the procession reached the Rama 4 intersection and about ten protesters prepared to release the banner as announced, police moved in, attempted to seize the banner immediately, causing a scuffle and injuries. The group reiterated that police should facilitate traffic, not use violence, and again demanded clarification and warned they hope police will facilitate and keep them safe during the afternoon and evening activities, and that the morning’s violence will not recur.
