Thailand’s Army Chief General Prayuth Chan-Ocha, citing a 1914 law that gives it authority to intervene during times of crisis, envoked martial law in the kingdom at 3am this morning (Tuesday).
He said the action had taken the action because on-going mass rallies between political rivals "could impact the country’s security and safety of the lives and properties of the public."
An announcement broadcast on the army-operated Channel 5 said martial law had been invoked "to restore peace and order for people from all sides". It stressed the move "is not a coup".
"The public do not need to panic but can still live their lives as normal," it added.
Thai television stations are being guarded by the military, according to CNN, and are showing images of soldiers and armored vehicles taking positions outside broadcast facilities in the country’s capital.
An army official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told The Associated Press: "This is definitely not a coup. This is only to provide safety to the people and the people can still carry on their lives as normal."
Several people contacted by DDproperty.com on Tuesday morning said it was very much business as usual, with no signs of the military taking up positions in central Bangkok.
Under martial law the military have power to take action against war or riots, censor information and enforce curfews.
There have been 11 successful coups in Thailand since 1932.
Image: Thailand’s Channel 5 television station was broadcasting details of the martial law statement at 7.45am on Tuesday morning.
Andrew Batt, International Group Editor of PropertyGuru Group, wrote this story. To contact him about this or other stories email andrew@propertyguru.com.sg
Stories you need to know from last week:
MUST READ: Bangkok condo new launch prices at two-year low
Phuket is home to Asia’s best Real Estate agency website
Big fall in Bangkok CDB launches in Q1
Buyers take a closer look at Krabi
COMMERCIAL NEWS: Factory rental rates set to remain stable
If you have a news story or comment for publication about Thailand property or real estate please email andrew@propertyguru.com.sg