PHUKET: The US Embassy issued a message to American citizens as the military shut down 10 television and radio stations and took control of others.
Army Chief General Prayuth Chan-ocha, who imposed martial law across Thailand before dawn, said he wanted all information delivered free of bias.
Outlets shut down by soldiers included UDD, Asia Update, Blue Sky, T News and ASTV. Soldiers took charge of the satellite base system in Nonthaburi and were at Channel 11 and other mainstream channels.
The heads of government departments are to meet with the Army chiefs at 2pm today.
US citizens were informed by their embassy: ''This message is to inform US citizens that the Royal Thai Army has invoked martial law throughout Thailand, effective 3:00 AM Tuesday May 20, 2014.
''According to a Royal Thai Army announcement, the military has assumed responsibility for maintaining peace and order.
''Martial law gives the military certain expanded authorities to ensure public security and safety. According to media reports, Thailand???s constitution and caretaker government remain in place.
''US citizens are advised to stay alert, exercise caution, and monitor media coverage. You are advised to avoid areas where there are protest events, large gatherings, or security operations and follow the instructions of Thai authorities.
''US citizens are cautioned that even demonstrations that are meant to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You should avoid protest sites, demonstrations, and large gatherings.
''Be alert and aware of your surroundings and pay attention to local news media reports. You should allow extra time when travelling throughout the city or to/from airports. Consider using public transportation.
''US citizens who travel to or reside in Thailand are strongly advised to enroll in the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) https://step.state.gov/step/.
''US citizens without Internet access may enroll directly with the nearest US embassy or consulate.'' Chiang Mai has a consulate but Phuket does not.
Army Chief General Prayuth Chan-ocha, who imposed martial law across Thailand before dawn, said he wanted all information delivered free of bias.
Outlets shut down by soldiers included UDD, Asia Update, Blue Sky, T News and ASTV. Soldiers took charge of the satellite base system in Nonthaburi and were at Channel 11 and other mainstream channels.
The heads of government departments are to meet with the Army chiefs at 2pm today.
US citizens were informed by their embassy: ''This message is to inform US citizens that the Royal Thai Army has invoked martial law throughout Thailand, effective 3:00 AM Tuesday May 20, 2014.
''According to a Royal Thai Army announcement, the military has assumed responsibility for maintaining peace and order.
''Martial law gives the military certain expanded authorities to ensure public security and safety. According to media reports, Thailand???s constitution and caretaker government remain in place.
''US citizens are advised to stay alert, exercise caution, and monitor media coverage. You are advised to avoid areas where there are protest events, large gatherings, or security operations and follow the instructions of Thai authorities.
''US citizens are cautioned that even demonstrations that are meant to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You should avoid protest sites, demonstrations, and large gatherings.
''Be alert and aware of your surroundings and pay attention to local news media reports. You should allow extra time when travelling throughout the city or to/from airports. Consider using public transportation.
''US citizens who travel to or reside in Thailand are strongly advised to enroll in the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) https://step.state.gov/step/.
''US citizens without Internet access may enroll directly with the nearest US embassy or consulate.'' Chiang Mai has a consulate but Phuket does not.
