BANGKOK — Anti-government demonstrators vowing a “final stand” unless the government resigns fought bloody street battles with troops Monday, then clashed with residents angry about the disruptions, killing two people.
During the day, troops drove back rampaging protesters with warning shots from automatic weapons, and by nightfall, clashes that had gripped several parts of the city and wounded 113 people had ebbed.
But as the demonstrators tried to make their way back to their base, deadly fighting erupted between them and residents.
Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva praised the efforts of security forces, saying they used “soft means” and “prevented as much damage as possible,” though ousted former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra — the man most protesters consider their leader — accused the military of covering up the number killed in the day’s battles.
Political tensions have simmered since 2006 when Thaksin was ousted by a military coup amid accusations of corruption and abuse of power. He remains popular in the impoverished countryside.
Army spokesman Col. Sansern Kaewkamnerd said some of the 6,000 troops deployed in Bangkok were heading to the vicinity around the seat of government and that police set up roadblocks to prevent more protesters from joining in.
Abhisit said he would listen to demonstrators at Government House who had engaged in peaceful and legal protest.
The U.S. Embassy on Monday urged Americans “to avoid the areas of demonstrations and to exercise caution anywhere in Bangkok.”
Monday marked the beginning of the Thai New Year, normally the country’s most joyous holiday.
