CAPO's Statement No.9: Requesting cooperation from the State Enterprises Workers' Relation Confederation (SERC)

May, 19 2014,

At 13.00 hrs., the Center for the Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO) informed the press on the CAPO statement number 9:

It has been already clear that Mr.Suthep Thaugsuban and leaders of the People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) have violated the law continuously in several cases. On 8 May, the Office of the Attorney-General has issued prosecution orders against 51 persons in various severe cases such as instigating the public to violate the law and obstructing the election, and the Criminal Court has already approved arrest warrants against 38 persons which will be proceeded by the officers concerned.

Although, Mr.Suthep and the PDRC leaders have been under many charges, they have not stopped their actions. On 18 May, they have issued joint statement with the State Enterprises Workers' Relation Confederation (SERC) led by Mr.Komsan Thongsiri, who has been also under several charges and under arrest warrants, requesting the SERC members to strike and showing signs of support to the PDRC demands. The SERC is consisted of numbers of organizations which each are important mechanism of the country. Each organization has specific duties especially to establish cooperation among workers and also to protect interests of the state enterprises under the Labour Relations Law and the State Enterprise Labour Relations. These laws have many regulations and one of the most important points is prohibiting strike which could damage performance of state enterprises. 

It is believed that the statement was influenced by Mr.Suthep. The SERC has a freedom to decide whether to follow the PDRC or not. Moreover, there are many employees working in many labour federations who intentionally perform their duties under the hard pressure.

The CAPO expressed its compliments and supports to employees and officials of state enterprises who have worked hard. The CAPO requested labour federations to be reminded the regulations under the law and to not violate them especially by striking. Such action could face legal actions.

The CAPO will invite executives of all state enterprises to meet with executives of the CAPO on 21 May, 14.00 hrs. at the CAPO headquarters to prepare for the possible situation. The CAPO will also issue a letter to the Supreme Commander to discuss and request for personnel to solve the situation in case there are electricity and water supplies cuts in the CAPO's responsible areas.

CAPO’S ANNOUNCEMENT OF 16/05/2014

May, 16 2014,

At 13.00 hrs., the Center for the Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO) informed the press on the outcome of the meeting of the CAPO earlier in the day:

1. The CAPO condemned any who fired M79 grenades and M16 rifles at the People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) protesters at the Democracy Monument on 14 May living 3 deaths and many injuries. The CAPO concerned that this could lead to more conflicts. The CAPO encouraged the public to use consideration when receiving the information and to not participate in any demonstrations as more violences could possibly occur. Moreover, following the seize of explosive devices and illegal materials in Lumpini Park, it has been clear that the PDRC demonstrations have been involved with weapons. The CAPO reaffirmed that it urged all the government agencies concerned to arrest the offenders and also planned  to protect and prevent such incident following the 2008 Internal Security Act which is now being enforced by integrating forces with the military, the police, and the civil servants. And If the situation could not be controlled, the government might consider to enforce the 2005 Emergency Decree. 

2. Following the CAPO statement number 8 requesting and warning the House of Senate including other groups to stop searching and appointing illegal Prime Minister, (Prime Minister from the Constitution Section 7), the CAPO believed that such attempt could not solve the situation. Instead, it could worsen the conflicts. The CAPO requested all sides to adhere to the law and also urged all sides to respect the Constitution and the Democratic regime by supporting the election for Members of Parliaments. The CAPO emphasized that any person or group who have involved with Mr.Suthep Thaugsuban in an attempt to search for the Prime Minister from the Constitution Section 7 could face legal actions. Mr.Suthep and the PDRC leaders are under several charges while 38 persons already faced with arrest warrants and 13 persons are being summoned.

CAPO’S ANNOUNCEMENT OF 15/05/2014

May, 15 2014,

At 13.00 hrs., the Center for the Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO) informed the press on the outcome of the meeting of the CAPO earlier in the day:

1. Following the relocating of the protest site of the People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) from Lumpini Park to Ratchadumnoen Road on 12 May, the CAPO has received a report that after being checked by police officers, the Explosive Ordinance Disposal officers, military officers, and the Bangkok officials, vests, explosive devices, and numbers of grenades have been found. All the materials have been transferred to the investigating officers in order to proceed with legal actions. Besides, it has been discovered that those materials belong to the PDRC security guards.

The CAPO wished to inform the public that it could prove that the PDRC demonstrations have been involved with weapons unlike what PDRC leaders have always claimed that the demonstrations is non-violent.

2. Following the news indicating that Mr.Suthep Thaugsuban and the PDRC leaders used the Santimaitri Building, the Government House to broadcast their statement, the CAPO wished to explain that such action was a trespassing of government premise and it was not accepted by police and military officers at the venue. Mr.Suthep and his fellows also broke in by cutting a chain at the main gate, breaking in to the building through windows. The officers already recorded all actions which will be proceeded with legal actions.

This morning, the Acting Prime Minister and his colleagues had a meeting with members of the Election Commission (EC) at the Kantarat Hall near the Royal Air Force Academy and the meeting was interrupted by 1,500 protesters threatening to enter the venue. The meeting then had to be postponed. The CAPO condemned such action as it was an attempt to obstruct the election.

The CAPO wished to inform the public that the Criminal Court has already approved arrest warrants against 38 person and 13 more are being summoned.

CAPO Statement No.8 : Warning Senators and political groups to stop searching and appointing unlawful Prime Minister (Prime Minister under Section 7)

May, 14 2014,

At 13.00 hrs., the Center for the Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO) informed the press on the CAPO statement number 8:

The CAPO is a special body established under the 2008 Internal Security Act on Bangkok and the vicinity with a duty to maintain peace and order in all dimensions by integrating forces with the military, the police and the government agencies concerned. It has been already clear that Mr.Suthep Thaugsuban and leaders of the People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) have violated the law continuously in several cases. Recently, the Office of the Attorney-General has issued prosecution orders against 51 person in various severe cases such as instigating the public to violate the law and obstructing the election.

Mr.Suthep and his fellows have demanded many things which the government has also responded by dissolving the parliament, but the PDRC obstructed the election on 2 February so the Constitutional Court ruled that the election was voided. Moreover, although the Constitutional Court ruled that the premiership of the Prime Minister was terminated on the case of Mr.Thawil Pliensri transferring and the National Anti-Corruption Committee (NACC) also pointed out the Prime Minister's faults on the corruption of Rice Pledging Scheme which all were demands of the PDRC, but leaders of the PDRC still lead the protesters to blockade various television broadcasting stations including many government agencies premises. In addition, Mr.Suthep and the PDRC leaders have expressed their demands without any law basis by requesting the left Ministers to resign by referring to the Constitution Section 3 and 7.

However, the Cabinet has appointed Mr. Niwatthamrong Bunsongphaisan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce to perform as "Acting Prime Minister" until the new Cabinet comes to office following the Section 10 that the Cabinet should assign a Deputy Prime Minister to act as the Prime Minister. As a result, demands of Mr.Suthep and the PDRC leaders requesting the House of Senate to search and appoint the Prime Minister under Section 7 is unachievable. Following Section 171, 172, and 173, the Prime Minister must be a Member of Parliament and must be agreed by the House of Representatives. Besides, Mr.Niwatthamrong is still the Acting Prime Minister and other Ministers are still performing their duties, consequently it is unlawful to appoint the new Prime Minister. 

The CAPO requested the House of Senate as well as the supporters of such idea to stop violating the law by appointing the New Prime Minister and presenting for the royal consideration as they are not only unlawful, but also will cause conflicts and violences especially the dissatisfaction of the other political group which could lead to a clash including a possible civil war.

With respect to Senators, the CAPO believed that the Senators will not violate the law and follow the Constitution in all Sections.

The statement is a position of the CAPO without any contribution from the military.

CAPO’S ANNOUNCEMENT OF 12/05/2014

May, 12 2014,

At 13.00 hrs., the Center for the Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO) informed the press on the outcome of the meeting of the CAPO earlier in the day:

1. Following the CAPO statement number 7 issued on 11 May requesting the People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC)  including other political groups and their supporters to stop their law violations by searching and appointing the Prime Minister with any law basis, the CAPO reaffirmed that in a statement of Mr.Suthep Thaugsuban and the PDRC leaders issued on 10 May attempting to request the President of the Senate, President of the Supreme Court, President of the Administrative Court, President of the Constitutional Court, President of the Election Commission to select the new Prime Minister by using the Section 7 of the Constitution is not achievable as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, Niwatthamrong Bunsongphaisarn has been assigned to act as Prime Minister. As a result, the situation is not a political vacuum as the PDRC has been expected. Following actions of Mr.Suthep and the PDRC leaders, the CAPO has to escalate the law enforcement against the law violations of the PDRC.

2. Following the statement of the ASEAN Ministers on Thailand's political situation indicating that the ASEAN member countries have closely followed developments in Thailand and expressed their supports for a peaceful resolution through dialogue and in full respect of democratic principles and rule of law. The statement also emphasized the importance of democratic process in restoring law and order, promoting national reconciliation and the return of normalcy in Thailand, in accordance with the will and interests of the people of Thailand. The CAPO encouraged all sides to adhere for democratic path especially the election.

3. The CAPO has received a report regarding the continuous violences committed by the PDRC security guards on 9 May. The guards blocked the traffic on the Tollway and assaulted an innocent person that traveling to the Don Muang Airport causing him severe injured. On 10 May, another innocent person was assaulted by the guards in front of the Channel 5 broadcasting station. The traffic blocking by the PDRC security guards also affected foreign tourists who traveled to the Airport by forcing them to walk to the Airport which severely damaged Thailand's image on the tourist and economic aspect. The CAPO condemned such actions of the guards and urged concerned agencies to take legal actions. 

Following the apology to Luang Pu Buddha Issara by a policeman, the CAPO insisted that it was not an apology but an expression of regret. The using of tear gas was followed a security principles. However, officials have already taken legal proceedings against Luang Pu Buddha Issara for the trespassing of government agencies premises and 5 other accusations. The CAPO wished to thank all police officers who have performed their duties with tolerance and also wished to honour those officers.

CAPO statement No.6 : Prohibiting assisting leaders of PDRC

May, 10 2014,

At 13.00 hrs., the Center for the Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO) informed the press on the CAPO statement number 6:

The CAPO is a special body established under the 2008 Internal Security Act on Bangkok and the vicinity with a duty to maintain peace and order in all dimensions by integrating forces with the military, the police and the government agencies concerned. It has been already clear that Mr.Suthep Thaugsuban and leaders of the People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) have violated the law continuously in several cases. Recently, the Office of the Attorney-General has issued prosecution orders against 51 person in various severe cases such as instigating the public to violate the law and obstructing the election.

Following the prosecution orders by the Office of the Attorney-General on Mr.Suthep and his fellows which most of the cases are related to the money laundering, the CAPO has instructed the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) to take legal action and proceed with the seize the assets of Mr.Suthep and other offenders. Moreover, Mr.Suthep has been also involved with several cases such as the killing of 99 person in 2011, corruption in police stations construction, corruption in election in Surat Thani Province, and trespassing land at Khao Paeng. Mr.Suthep has used the mass to protect himself from being arrested. The CAPO condemned actions of Mr.Suthep and his associates.

Following the blockading of television broadcasting stations by the PDRC and intimidating executives and directors of those channels to not broadcast news from the government side but to only broadcast the PDRC demonstrations, the CAPO considered such action as a media threatening. In addition, the trespassing at the Government House by the PDRC is not only a law violation but also damaging the nation.

Following the demonstration of the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) which has already begun, the CAPO wished to encourage the public to use their consideration before participating in the demonstrations either of the PDRC or the UDD as any who violates the law will face legal actions.

The statement was issued under the position of the CAPO without any contribution from the military.

CAPO Statement No.5 : Prohibiting broadcasting or assisting leaders of the PDRC

May, 9 2014,

At 16.00 hrs., the Center for the Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO) informed the press on the CAPO statement number 5:

The CAPO is a special body established under the 2008 Internal Security Act on Bangkok and the vicinity with a duty to maintain peace and order in all dimensions by integrating forces with the military, the police and the government agencies concerned. It has been already clear that Mr.Suthep Thaugsuban and leaders of the People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) have violated the law continuously in several cases. Recently, the Office of the Attorney-General has issued prosecution orders against 51 person in various severe cases such as instigating the public to violate the law and obstructing the election.

Following the threat of leaders of the PDRC on executives and directors of television channel 3,5,7,9, and NBT to not broadcast statements or news of the government but to only broadcast the PDRC demonstrations, the CAPO has instructed executives, directors, and owners of every radio and television broadcasting stations to not respond to demands of the PDRC other wise they will face with legal actions both in crime and civil aspects. 

Following the prosecution orders by the Office of the Attorney-General on Mr.Suthep and his fellows which most of the cases are related to the money laundering, the CAPO has instructed the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) to take legal action and proceed with the seize the assets of Mr.Suthep and other offenders.

The CAPO was received an information that tonight, there will be a group of people attempting to commit an incident in various protest sites, the CAPO urges to public to not join the demonstrations or to travel close to the sites for the own safety.

CAPO 4th's statement : Condemns PDRC's actions and urges the public to avoid participating in the PDRC's illegal activities

May, 9 2014,

At 13.00 hrs., the Center for the Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO) informed the press on the CAPO statement number 4:

The CAPO is a special body established under the 2008 Internal Security Act on Bangkok and the vicinity with a duty to maintain peace and order in all dimensions by integrating forces with the military, the police and the government agencies concerned. It has been already clear that Mr.Suthep Thaugsuban and leaders of the PDRC have violated the law continuously in several cases. Recently, the Office of the Attorney-General has issued prosecution orders against 51 person in various severe cases such as instigating the public to violate the law and obstructing the election.

Mr.Suthep and his fellows have demanded many things which the government has also responded by dissolving the parliament. However, the PDRC obstructed the election on 2 February so the Constitutional Court ruled that the election was voided. Moreover, although the Constitutional Court ruled that the premiership of the Prime Minister was terminated on the case of Mr.Thawil Pliensri transferring and the National Anti-Corruption Committee (NACC) also pointed out the Prime Minister's faults on the corruption of Rice Pledging Scheme which all were demands of the PDRC, but leaders of the PDRC still lead the protesters to blockade various television broadcasting stations including many government agencies premises. The CAPO wished to condemn actions of Mr.Suthep and leaders of the PDRC and also wished to encourage the public to not join the demonstrations. 

This statement is an opinion of the CAPO without any contribution from the military.

CAPO’S ANNOUNCEMENT OF 8/05/2014

At 16:00 hrs., the Center for the Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO) informed the press on the outcome of the meeting of the CAPO earlier in the day, gist as follows:

1. Following yesterday Constitutional Court ruling on the unlawful removal of Mr. Thawil Pliensri , Security-General of the National Security Council, which resulted in terminating of ministerships of the Prime Minister and other 9 ministers, the CAPO wished to comment as follows. 

- The CAPO wished to inform that the center is a special unit established the Internal Security Act of B.E. 2551, therefore the Constitutional Court ruling did not have any effect on the function of the CAPO.

- Regarding the status of Police Captain Chalerm Ubumrung, Minister of Labour and Director of the CAPO, the CAPO meeting this morning concluded that his CAPO directorship was not affected by the Constitutional Court’s ruling. The Constitutional Court ruled that Pol.Cap. Chalerm’s ministerialship was dismissed under Section 187 (2) of the Constitutional.  At the time the Cabinet reached the decision on transfering of Mr. Tawil, Pol. Cap. Chalerm was the Deputy Prime Minister and later on was removed for the new cabinet appointment. His labour ministership was granted after the Cabinet reached its decision on Mr. Tawil and should not be affected by yesterday Constitutional Court ruling. 

This should be applied to Deputy Prime Minister Surapong, the Chairman of the Advisory of the CAPO, whose foreign ministership should only be dismissed by the Constitutional Court’s ruling. 

2. The CAPO would like to inform that the Center did not have any intentioned in its announcement on 6 May (the third official statement) to interfere or pressure the Constitutional Court in making its ruling. The CAPO wished to inform the public that the center was seriously concerned with the situation and only attempted to restrain and mitigate the political situation. 

The CAPO will not make any further comment on the Constitutional Court’s ruling, however, this ruling could induce further conflict and escalation of the incidence as seen by the firing of M79 grenade at Chulabhorn Hospital and the headquarter of the Siam Commercial Bank as well as the bomb throwing at the residence of Constitutional Court judge last night. 

The CAPO has adapted its security plans and measure for the upcoming major rally by the People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) on 9 May and by the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) on 10 May. The CAPO wished to urge all parties concerned not to support the public gathering and urged the leaders of both sides to bear in mind any possible impacts that could happen from the major rally. 

The CAPO wished to bring an attention on the attack of the foreign journalist who reported the news at the Constitutional Court yesterday. The CAPO was of the view that any peaceful public gathering is the right granted by the Constitution and any unlawful treatment shall be brought to justice. The CAPO will be monitoring the situation closely and will perform the duties by law enforcement against demonstrators in both groups on equal basis.

3. The CAPO wished to inform that today that the attorney general have charged Mr.Suthep and 50 PDRC leaders on 9 offenses, including sedition, incitement to breach the law, cause chaos in the country and event obstruction the election and intrusion of government officers. Mr. Suthep and Mr. Chumpol Julasai were additionally charged of terrorism.

CAPO’S ANNOUNCEMENT OF 6/05/2014

May 6, 2014

At 13:00 hrs., the Center for the Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO) informed the press on the outcome of the meeting of the CAPO earlier in the day:

1. The CAPO has prioritized the new election scheduled on 20 July 2014 as it could solve conflicts among political groups. The CAPO has a policy to enforce the law against offenders who obstruct the election. The CAPO has received a report from the Royal Thai Police regarding the legal proceedings against leaders of the People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC). So far, there are 191 cases involving election obstructions (51 cases in Bangkok and 140 cases in other provinces) and 180 cases involving the failure of electoral officers to perform their duties (66 cases in Bangkok and 114 cases in other provinces). 203 person already faced arrest warrants. 280 person were already brought to justice.

2. Following the information received by the CAPO regarding a plot to deploy officials of the State Enterprises to sabotage the public facilities in order to support actions of the PDRC, the CAPO has issued a letter to Heads and Executives of every State Enterprises to prepare a plan to prevent such circumstance by 12 May. The CAPO has already prepared a plan and wished to warn that any who participate in such action will have to legally take responsibility without exception.

3. The CAPO expressed its compliments to military and police officials for negotiating with the PDRC to resume functions of the Ministry of Interior without any violence. The CAPO also appreciated leaders of the PDRC for returning the premise and remove the protesters to the Lumpini Park. Moreover, the CAPO appreciated Luang Pu Buddha Issara for his previous statement to return the protest site on the Chaengwattana Road and relocate the protest site to Building B in the Government Complex which could solve traffic problems including to decrease violent incidents.

CAPO’S ANNOUNCEMENT OF 1/05/2014

At 13.00 hrs., the Center for the Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO) informed the press on the outcome of the meeting of the CAPO earlier in the day, gist as follows:

1. The CAPO expressed its compliments for a meeting between the Election Commission (EC) and the Prime Minister which both sides agreed for the new election scheduled on 20 July 2014. It is considered an important development in order to bring back peace and order to the country. The CAPO will propose the EC to assign joint working committee consisted of members from the CAPO and the EC with duties to prepare for the election and to prevent any attempt to obstruct the election.

2. The CAPO has received a report from the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) regarding the legal actions against leaders of the People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) including Mr.Suthep Thaugsuban on several charges. The cases of 58 offenders will be submitted to the public prosecutors today at 14.00 hrs. The list of offenders included:
Mr.Suthep Thaugsuban, Mr.Sathit Wongnongtoey, Mr. Chumpol Julasai, Mr.Puttipong Punnakan, Mr.Issara Somchai, Mr.Witthaya Kaewparadai, Mr.Tavorn Sennium, Mr.Nattapon Theepsuwan, Mr.Akanat Promphan, Miss Anchalee Paireerak, Mr.Nitithorn Lamlua, Mr.Uthai Yodmanee, Sub-Lieutenant Samdin Lertbut, General Preecha Eimsuphan, Mr.Somkiart Pongpaiboon, Mr.Yossak Kosaikanont, Mr.Supawat Supiyapanit, Mr.Somboon Thongburan, Miss Chitpas Pirompakdi, Mr.Sathit Pitutecha, Mr.Sakonthi Pattiyakul, Mr.Tossapon Pengsom, Mr.Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, Mr.Kaewsan Atibodhi, Mr.Jermsak Pinthong, Mr.Seri Wongmontha, Mr.Kittisak Prokkati, Mr.Thanom Onketpol, Mr.Charnwit Wiphusiri, Mr.Paiboon Nititawan, General Pathompong Kesornsuk, Mr.Suriyasai Katasila, Mr.Pipop Thongchai, Mr.Boonyod Suktinthai, Mr.Ong-art Klampaiboon, Mr.Pijarn Sukpharangsi, Mr.Ratyut Sirayothinpaksi, Mr.Pichit Chaiyamongkol, Mr.Somsak Kosaisuk, Luang Pu Buddha Issara, Mr.Sawit Kaewwan, Mr.Sathit Segal, Mr.Kittichai Saisa-ard, Mr.Konsan Thongsiri, Mr.Sonthiyarn Chuenruethainaitham, Mr.Pichet Pattanachot, Mr.Munman Kakarndee, Mr.Prakobkit Inthong, Mr.Nasser Yima, Mr.Phansuwan Na Kaew, Mr.Suriyan Thongnueid, Mr.Samran Rodphet, Mrs.Natthaya Benjasiriwan, Miss Rangsima Rodrassami, Mrs.Thaya Theepsuwan, Air Marshal Watchara Ritthikhani, Admiral Chai Suwannaphab, and Mr.Thawil Pliensri.

Aside from the said offenders, there are further PDRC leaders which have been related with the election obstruction. The investigation officers will attempt to finish all cases by May 2014.

The CAPO wished to reaffirm to the public that the legal proceedings have been conducted with a fair and just manner. Although it is the right of the public to participate in the demonstrations but once it violates the law, every offenders will be brought to justice without any exception.

CAPO’S ANNOUNCEMENT OF 30/04/2014

April, 30 2014,

At 13.00 hrs., the Center for the Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO) informed the press on the outcome of the meeting of the CAPO earlier in the day.

1. The CMPO has received a report from the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) regarding the legal actions against leaders of the People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) including Mr.Suthep Thaugsuban on several charges. So far, there are 316 offenders and the investigation officers consisted of officers from the DSI, the Attorney-General, and the Royal Thai Police have concluded the cases and will file them to the public prosecutors on 1 May. It is expected that the prosecutors will issue legal orders by 8 May for those who have not turned themselves in. The investigation officers will also submit a request to the court for issuing arrest warrants against the left offenders.

The CAPO wished to reaffirm to the public that the legal proceedings have been conducted with a fair and just manner. Although it is the right of the public to participate in the demonstrations but once it violates the law, every offenders will be brought to justice without any exception.

2. The CAPO with cooperation from government agencies, has successfully resumed functions of 70 government agencies that were blockaded by the PDRC. The CAPO wish to encourage all political groups either the PDRC or the United Front ofDemocracy Against Dictatorship (UDD) to not blockade government agencies premises or obstruct the performance of government officials as such actions could cause national damages including delaying public services.

Following the policy of the CAPO to take legal actions against leaders of the PDRC which the Criminal Court has already approved arrest warrants against many offenders, the police officers will attempt to arrest those offenders without any clashes. So far, 28 government agencies have filed complaints for 37 cases on the charge of trespassing and blockading government agencies premises.

CAPO’S ANNOUNCEMENT OF 25/04/2014

April, 25 2014,

At 13.00 hrs., the Center for the Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO) informed the press on the outcome of the meeting of the CAPO earlier in the day.

1. Following the CAPO's statement regarding legal actions against Mr.Suthep Thaugsuban and other leaders of the People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) and warning the public to not participate to the demonstrations. The demonstrations have been categorized as a special case under responsibility of the police, the Department of Special Investigation, and the Attorney-General. It is considered appropriate to issue arrest warrants against 80 PDRC's leders in several cases. The investigation has been concluded and will be transferred to the Attorney-General on 1 May 2014 and it is expected that legal orders could be achieved by 10 May 2014.

2. The CAPO has been concerned the violences that continuously occurs especially gunfire on the public such as the incident on 14 April which 2 teenagers were shot near the Chaengwatthana Road protest site, and on 23 April that passing motorcycle riders near the Chaengwatthana Road protest site were shot which left 5 injuries. Both incidents have proved that the members PDRC have used violences including obtained weapons. The demonstrations have been carried out without peace manners. The CAPO wished to encourage the public to avoid traveling near the protest sites. In order to maintain safety for the public, the police has already changed traffic routes nearby the site on Chaengwatthana Road.

3. The CAPO has received a report that Colonel Vitawat Watthanakul who was walking home near the Chaengwatthana protest site was shot by the PDRC security guards. He is injured at his both legs. This can be proved that the PDRC at the Chaengwatthana Road has used weapons against both the public and the government officials.

4. The CAPO has received a report that Mr.Kamol Duangpasuk "Mai Nung Kor , a Red Shirt Poem was shot. The CAPO has instructed the officers to continue with the investigations to bring the suspect to justice. The CAPO has been concerned that the incident could lead to more conflicts among various political groups and also wished to request all groups to not instigate more hatred against other groups. The CAPO also wished to urge the public to use judgements while receiving news and information.

5. The CAPO has received a report regarding the firing of M79 grenade on the building of Daily News news agency. Following the incident, the CAPO wished to condemn an action. The Daily News was attacked just a day after it solely published images of gun exchanges at the Chaengwatthana Road. 

CAPO’S ANNOUNCEMENT OF 24/04/2014

April, 24 2014,

At 13.00 hrs., the Center for the Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO) informed the press on the outcome of the meeting of the CAPO earlier in the day.

The CAPO is a special unit established under the 2008 Internal Security Act with a main duty to integrate forces with military officers, police officers, and civil officials in order to maintain peace and order. For 37 days that the CAPO has performed its duties with focus on taking legal actions against leaders of the protesters especially Mr.Suthep Thaugsuban and leaders of the People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC). The demonstrations have been categorized as a special case under responsibility of the police, the Department of Special Investigation, and the Attorney-General. The Criminal Court has approved arrest warrants against 80 PDRC's leders in several cases. The investigation has been concluded and will be transferred to the Attorney-General on 1 May 2014.

1. The CAPO has focused on the law enforcement in order to prevent revenges from political groups.

2. The CAPO  wished to remind the public to not be convinced by any discourse made by Mr.Suthep and the PDRC as it could lead to the law violation.

3. The participation with the protesters not only violate the law but also could be risk for the safety.

4. The CAPO reaffirmed that it will continue proceeding with legal actions against Mr.Suthep and PDRC's leaders.

5. The CAPO intended not only to take actions against the PDRC, but also against every political groups that violate the law.

CAPO’S ANNOUNCEMENT OF 23/04/2014

April, 23 2014,

At 13.00 hrs., the Center for the Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO) informed the press on the outcome of the meeting of the CAPO earlier in the day, gist as follows:

1. Following a clash between the protesters at the Chaengwatthana Road, the CAPO has received a report that 2 bullets were fired and security guards of the People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) have seized 3 police officers in the venue including their guns. One police officer has filed a complain against the PDRC's security guards. The CAPO wished to express the appreciation to those officers who have performed their duties and instructed officers to arrest the gunman as soon as possible. However, the CAPO expressed its concerns on a clash between groups of protesters especially during the verdicts of the National Anti-Corruption Committee (NACC) and the Constitution Court. The CAPO encouraged leaders of all political groups to end their demonstrations including urging the public to participate as it could lead to a clash. If any incident occurs, those leaders will have to take responsibility both in criminal and civil aspects.

2. Following the meeting between the Election Commission (EC) and representatives from political parties, the EC has set the possible schedules for the new election; 20 July, 17 August, or 14 September. However, the meeting has not achieved any concrete agreement on the date of election. The CAPO wished to urge the EC to hold the election as soon as possible in order to have the new government. The CAPO also encouraged the EC to prepare for the election obstructions and the CAPO is ready to support the EC.

3. Following an article from the Financial Time newspaper on 22 April 2014 on the political situation in Thailand that has reached the crisis with an attempt for the coup by several organizations, the Financial Time also indicated that the Constitution Court, the NACC, and the EC are bringing the situation into a struggle between the elite class and and voters in rural areas which has lasted for 8 years through the case of transferring the former Secretary-General of the National Security Council by the Constitutional Court and the case of the Rice Pledging Scheme by the NACC. The content of the said article has been in accordance with previous statements of the CAPO. The CAPO wished to encourage concerned agencies to perform their duties sincerely. 

CAPO’S ANNOUNCEMENT OF 22/04/2014

22 April 2014

At 13.00 hrs., the Center for the Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO) informed the press on the outcome of the meeting of the CAPO earlier in the day.

1. Following the 2 open letters written by Professor Dr.Ukrit Mongkolnavin, the first one was about the consideration of the Constitution Court on the termination of the premiership following the transferring of Mr.Tawin Pliensri, Professor Dr.Ukrit explained that the case was an authority of the Prime Minister and the Prime Minister and the cabinet have been in a position of caretaker, as a result, the termination of the premiership can be achieved only through the royal command. For the second letter, Professor Dr.Ukrit commented that the process of consideration of the Constitution Court is not following the rule of law as the Court has utilized their own created rules which are not written in the law. Both letters have been in accordance with the previous statement of the CAPO.

2. Following the previous verdict of the Constitution Court on the termination of the premiership of the former Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej number 12-13/2551, it was indicated that only the Prime Minister that was terminated while other Ministers should perform their duties. 8 from 9 members of the Court still remain in their same position.

3. Following the meeting between the CAPO and 37 Head of government agencies regarding the proceeding of legal actions against the protesters that blockaded government agencies premises, the CAPO believes that such instructions could deter any actions that affect the internal security.

4. Following concerns of the CAPO on the economic damages caused by the the demonstration of the People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC), the CAPO wishes to inform the public that from the survey by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce in March, it indicates that the political conflict has already caused more than 300,000 million Baht economic damages. The CAPO wishes to keep every political groups remined of such damages and to encourage all groups to solve the conflict with the peaceful means for the national interests.

CAPO’S ANNOUNCEMENT OF 21/04/2014

21 April 2014

At 13.00., the Center for the Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO) informed the press on the outcome of the meeting of the CAPO earlier in the day

1. Following the invitation of the CAPO to Permanent Secretaries of all government agencies on 17 April, today, the CAPO has issued a letter to Heads of all agencies to inform agreements from the meeting. The CAPO also instructed all agencies to proceed with legal actions against the protesters that blockaded government agencies premises and to avoid welcoming the protesters as it could be considered a support for the demonstrations. The CAPO with cooperation with various agencies, has successfully reopened 70 government agencies while 37 cases regarding the blockading of government agencies premises have been filed.

2. The CAPO has received a report from the Metropolitan Police and Provincial Police regional commands regarding the legal proceedings against the election obstructions. So far, there are 191 cases involving election obstructions (51 cases in Bangkok and 140 cases in other provinces) and 180 cases involving the failure of electoral officers to perform their duties (66 cases in Bangkok and 114 cases in other provinces). 203 person already faced arrest warrants. 258 person have been brought to justice.

3. In order to keep the public informed, the CAPO has instructed the Department of Public Relations or the NBT and the MCOT channel 9 to broadcast the discussion regarding the new Members of Parliament Election between the Election Commission (EC) and political parties that will be held on 22 April 2014. The CAPO considers that the election is the heart of democracy which will bring peace and order to the country.

CAPO’S ANNOUNCEMENT OF 18/04/2014

18 April 2014

At 13:00 hrs., the Center for the Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO) informed the press on the outcome of the meeting of the CAPO earlier in the day, gist as follows:

1. Following the CAPO’s 7 points of request made yesterday to the relevant parties, including the Cabinet, core leaders of the political groups and the general public, the CAPO is of the view that these requests could assist in mitigating political situation and bring back peace and order to the country.

2. The CAPO would like to thank all parties concerned in terminating their political rally during the Songkran festival. The center also appreciated security personals who performed their duties during this past holiday season.  Nonetheless, the CAPO is deeply concerned with announcement made by the PDRC’s core leaders in an attempt to mobilize the masses and escalate scale of the rally in order to claim the ultimate victory. Such announcement could trigger collision or confrontation by a pro and anti- government groups.

Regarding the incidence of shooting of the PDRC guard to death on 15 April, preliminary investigation revealed that it was caused by internal conflict amongst PDRC guards. For the safety concern, the CAPO wished to urge all general public to consider carefully before participating in the rally.

3. At yesterday’s meeting with Permanent Secretaries of all government agencies yesterday, the CAPO briefed the head of government agencies on the latest situation as well as on security measures. All permanent secretaries attended the meeting agreed to urge their subordinates to work their utmost in providing services to the general public. Permanent secretaries also affirmed that they will avoid any activity that considered supporting the PDRC political agendas.

สรุปผลการประชุม ศอ.รส. ประจำวันที่ ๑๘ เมษายน ๒๕๕๗

ศูนย์อำนวยการรักษาความสงบเรียบร้อย หรือ ศอ.รส. มีผลการประชุมสมควรแจ้งให้พี่น้องประชาชนทราบ ดังนี้

เรื่องที่ ๑ ตามที่ ศอ.รส. ได้ออกแถลงการณ์ ฉบับที่ ๑ เรื่อง ข้อเรียกร้องต่อฝ่ายต่างๆ เพื่อการแก้ไขปัญหาความไม่สงบเรียบร้อย เมื่อวันที่ ๑๗ เมษายนที่ผ่านมานั้น ศอ.รส. ขอเรียนว่า เหตุผลที่ ศอ.รส. ต้องออกแถลงการณ์ดังกล่าว เนื่องจากขณะนี้มีข้อมูลอย่างเพียงพอที่ได้บ่งชี้ว่าจะเกิดความรุนแรงและเหตุร้ายขึ้นในเขตพื้นที่รับผิดชอบของ ศอ.รส. โดยเฉพาะการระดมจัดมวลชนให้มีการชุมนุมใหญ่ทั้งของ กปปส. และ นปช. และกลุ่มอื่นๆ ในลักษณะท้าทายและแข่งขันกัน ภายใต้เงื่อนไขสำคัญคือ การวินิจฉัยขององค์กรตามรัฐธรรมนูญ ๒ องค์กร คือ คณะกรรมการ ป.ป.ช. และศาลรัฐธรรมนูญ ซึ่ง ศอ.รส. มีความกังวลและห่วงใยต่อสถานการณ์ในขณะนี้เป็นอย่างมาก เพราะขณะนี้ความขัดแย้งและการจัดแนวร่วมของแต่ละฝ่ายขยายตัวในวงกว้าง มีกลุ่มประชาชนที่สนับสนุนและคัดค้านแต่ละฝ่ายจำนวนมาก และมีการกล่าวหาว่าองค์กรอิสระบางองค์กรเป็นแนวร่วมกับบางกลุ่มด้วย ตลอดจนมีความพยายามจัดการเลือกตั้งให้เนิ่นช้าออกไป เพื่อให้ปัญหาลุกลามและเกิดสุญญากาศตามแนวทางของบางฝ่าย

ดังนั้น ศอ.รส. ซึ่งเป็นหน่วยงานพิเศษที่รับผิดชอบแก้ไขปัญหาความไม่สงบอันเกิดจากความขัดแย้งอย่างรุนแรงในขณะนี้ จึงได้ออกแถลงการณ์ดังกล่าวซึ่งมีข้อเรียกร้อง ๗ ข้อต่อองค์กร กลุ่มบุคคล คณะรัฐมนตรี กลุ่มแกนนำผู้ร่วมชุมนุม ตลอดจนพี่น้องประชาชนตามที่ ศอ.รส. ได้แถลงให้ทราบทั่วกันเมื่อวานนี้ ซึ่ง ศอ.รส. เชื่อว่าข้อเรียกร้องดังกล่าวเป็นส่วนสำคัญต่อการแก้ไขสถานการณ์ไม่ให้เกิดความรุนแรง และจะช่วยนำความสงบเรียบร้อยในบ้านเมืองกลับคืนสู่ปกติได้ในที่สุด

เรื่องที่ ๒ ศอ.รส. ขอขอบคุณผู้ชุมนุมกลุ่มต่างๆ ที่ยุติการเคลื่อนไหวชั่วคราวในช่วงวันหยุดสงกรานต์ที่ผ่านมา ซึ่งทำให้บรรยากาศการฉลองเทศกาลสงกรานต์ผ่านพ้นไปด้วยดี และศอ.รส. ขอแสดงความขอบคุณไปยังหน่วยราชการต่างๆ โดยเฉพาะอย่างยิ่งเจ้าหน้าที่ตำรวจและทหาร ตลอดจนหน่วยงานความมั่นคงต่างๆ ที่ได้เสียสละปฏิบัติหน้าที่รักษาความปลอดภัยให้กับผู้ชุมนุมในช่วงวันหยุดสงกรานต์ ซึ่งภาพรวมของการชุมนุมเป็นไปด้วยความเรียบร้อย อย่างไรก็ตาม ศอ.รส. มีความห่วงใยต่อกรณีที่แกนนำ กปปส. ได้ประกาศว่าจะระดมผู้ชุมนุมและยกระดับการชุมนุมเพื่อที่จะประกาศชัยชนะได้ภายในเดือนเมษายน เนื่องจากการประกาศระดมมวลชนดังกล่าวจะเป็นการสร้างความขัดแย้งให้เกิดขึ้นระหว่างกลุ่มผู้ที่ไม่เห็นด้วยกับรัฐบาลและกลุ่มผู้เห็นด้วยกับรัฐบาล  ดังนั้น ศอ.รส. จึงขอเรียกร้องไปยังแกนนำ กปปส. รวมทั้งแกนนำ นปช. และแกนนำกลุ่มอื่นๆ ให้ตระหนักถึงผลกระทบที่จะเกิดขึ้นจากการปลุกระดมดังกล่าว และ ศอ.รส. ขอเรียกร้องให้ทุกฝ่ายร่วมกันแก้ไขปัญหาตามแนวทางที่ ศอ.รส. ได้ออกแถลงการณ์ ฉบับที่ ๑ เรื่อง ข้อเรียกร้องต่อฝ่ายต่างๆ เพื่อการแก้ไขปัญหาความไม่สงบเรียบร้อย ดังที่ได้กล่าวแล้วในเรื่องที่ ๑

อนึ่ง ศอ.รส. ได้รับรายงานเกี่ยวกับกรณีที่การ์ด กปปส. สวนลุมพินี ถูกยิงจนเสียชีวิตเมื่อวันที่ ๑๕ เมษายนที่ผ่านมาว่า เหตุดังกล่าวเกิดจากความขัดแย้งกันเองระหว่างการ์ด กปปส. ในสวนลุมพินี ซึ่งแสดงให้เห็นชัดเจนว่าการชุมนุมของ กปปส. มีการใช้อาวุธและความรุนแรง ดังนั้น ศอ.รส. จึงขอเรียกร้องให้พี่น้องประชาชนได้ใช้วิจารณญาณในการเข้าร่วมชุมนุม เพื่อความปลอดภัยของตัวท่านเอง

เรื่องที่ ๓ เมื่อวานนี้ ศอ.รส. ได้เชิญปลัดกระทรวงทุกกระทรวงเข้าร่วมประชุมหารือเพื่อกำหนดแนวทางปฏิบัติต่อการชุมนุมของกลุ่ม กปปส. ซึ่งเรียกร้องให้ข้าราชการสนับสนุนแนวทางของ กปปส.  ทั้งนี้ เมื่อมีการประกาศใช้พระราชบัญญัติการรักษาความมั่นคงภายในราชอาณาจักร พ.ศ. ๒๕๕๑ ปลัดกระทรวงได้รับการแต่งตั้งให้เป็นพนักงานเจ้าหน้าที่ตามกฎหมายดังกล่าวด้วย โดยในการประชุมครั้งนี้ ปลัดกระทรวงต่างๆ ได้รับทราบข้อเท็จจริงเกี่ยวกับสถานการณ์ในปัจจุบัน และแนวทางปฏิบัติต่อกรณีเหตุการณ์ความไม่สงบที่เกิดในเขตพื้นที่รับผิดชอบของ ศอ.รส. โดยเฉพาะขณะนี้ แกนนำ กปปส. ได้ถูกดำเนินคดีแล้วถึง ๘๐ คน โดยมีนายสุเทพ เทือกสุบรรณ เป็นแกนนำหลัก และศาลได้อนุมัติหมายจับนายสุเทพฯ ในข้อหากบฎ พร้อมกับแกนนำอีกจำนวนหนึ่ง  ซึ่งปลัดกระทรวงต่างๆ เห็นพ้องที่จะกำชับให้ข้าราชการในสังกัดของตนมุ่งมั่นที่จะปฏิบัติราชการเพื่อให้บริการประชาชนอย่างดีที่สุด และหัวหน้าส่วนราชการทุกหน่วยงานจะหลีกเลี่ยงการต้อนรับหรือกระทำการใดๆ ที่เข้าข่ายเป็นการสนับสนุนหรือเห็นด้วยกับการกระทำของแกนนำ กปปส. ซึ่งอยู่ระหว่างถูกดำเนินคดีดังกล่าว

จึงประกาศมาเพื่อทราบทั่วกัน

CAPO’S ANNOUNCEMENT OF 17/04/2014

17 April 2014

At 13:00 hrs., the Center for the Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO) informed the press on the outcome of the meeting of the CAPO earlier in the day, gist as follows:

The CAPO is a special security unit, established under the Internal Security Act of 2007 with a mission to administrate security forces including military, police and civilians to maintain peace and orders in Bangkok and its vicinity. With its comprehensive information, the CAPO expected there will be violent confrontation in Bangkok area as a result of mass rally by the People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC), the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) and other groups.  The expected mass rally will be held in responding to the upcoming Constitutional Court ruling on considering the status of the Prime Minister over the transfer of Mr. Thawil Pliensri, Secretary-General of the National Security Council (NSC), and the NACC Commission to indicate a fault in the rice mortgage scheme.

If the Constitutional Court rules that Prime Minister Yingluck has violated section 266 of the Constitution by transferring Mr. Pliensri from his Secretary-General position at the NSC, then the entire cabinet would be removed from the office as stipulated in section 180 of the Constitution. However, the section 181 of the Constitution still allows the members of the Cabinet to perform their duties until the next Cabinet resumes its duty.

Nevertheless, it is expected that the Constitutional Court ruling will exercise their ruling beyond the basis of the Constitution, and to decide to ban the current Cabinet to perform its duty in accordance with the Section 181. This is an attempt by the PDRC and some other groups to create a political vacuum which would lead them to refer to section 3 and 7 in nominating the new Prime Minister and the new Cabinet. The UDD and other groups will not accept any ruling by the Court and NACC that is far beyond integrity of the law. 

The CAPO is deeply concerned that such rulings could instigate more conflict and lead to confrontation. The CAPO wished to urge all organizations to work and uphold impartiality to reduce any possible conflict and bring back situation to normal. The CAPO wishes to urge all the concerned parties to engage as follows:

1.      NACC: to consider the Prime Minister’s case on the rice pledge scheme based on facts, law and without discrimination. NACC shall comply with the ethical standards as a cornerstone of their duties.

2.      Constitutional Court: with respect to the Court, the CAPO urged the Court to base its ruling on fairness. The decision to transfer Secretary General of NSC was under the purview of the Prime Minister and that should not be interfered. If the Prime Minister is pledged guilty in violating section 266, the Court should not rule that the Cabinet has to be removed and cannot perform its duty as allowed by section 181 of the Constitution.

3.      The Cabinet: if the Constitutional Court decides that the Cabinet cannot exercise its duty under Section 181, then the Cabinet should ask His Majesty the King to grant his opinion if the Cabinet should still perform its duty. The CAPO is of the view that it is not the purview of the Constitutional Court to make such a ruling itself by violating section 181. Section 181 is an important principle of the country to prevent a political vacuum in administering the country.

4.      Election Commission: to urge for convening of early election for the House of Representatives in order to have the new administrative body, then the conflict and demonstration will be ended. Partial behaviors of some election commissions are unacceptable and constitute a criminal offence.

5.      PDRC and UDD leaders: to urge all parties concerned not to support the public gathering and urged the leaders of both sides to bear in mind possible impacts from the major rally. If the leaders of both sides still insist in instigating for the mass rally, they should be held in accountable for their actions.

6.      Head of Government agencies: to work it utmost to ensure their agencies to provide services to general public. They should discourage any of their subordinate in participating in any activities to support any political group that has committed any legal offense.

7.      General public: to refrain from participating in the political rally whether it is PDRC, UDD or any other groups. Amidst sedition and political manipulation, the CAPO wished to urge the general public to exercise their careful judgment.