29 May 2010

Thai PM lifts curfew, retains emergency rule

9:00 pm on 29 May 2010

Thailand's prime minister has lifted a curfew imposed across about a third of the country, including Bangkok, in the wake of deadly anti-government protests, saying the situation is now under control.

But Abhisit Vejjajiva says there is no plan yet to revoke emergency rule.

The curfew was imposed on 19 May after enraged protesters went on a rampage of arson following an army crackdown on their rally, which had paralysed the retail heart of the capital.

Protest leaders surrendered after armoured vehicles backed by armed troops firing live rounds smashed through their barricades.

Nearly 90 people died during the two months of Red Shirt rallies.