Military coup announced at 16.30

Army Chief Commander Prayuth Chan-ocha announced on national television that due to escalating violence, the army must seize power from the caretaker government to bring back peace and order.  
 
Prayuth, and three other Royal Armed Forces Commanders as well as the Police Commander, made the announcement after the meeting with seven political sides shortly before 16.30. 
 
“In order to bring peace, order and unity to the nation as before, as well as reforms in the political structure, society and economy in order to create legitimacy for all sides, the army and police must take control of the country on May 22 from 16.30 onwards. May all the people live their normal lives," said Prayuth. 
 
He said that foreign relations with other countries will remain normal as with the previous government.  
 
“National Peace and Order Maintenance Council will worship and protect the monarchy,” he said.  
 
 
 

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