Thai army declares military coup

Late in the afternoon of May 22, Thai Army Commander General Prayuth Chan-ocha declared a military coup, seizing control of the caretaker government headed by Acting Prime Minister Niwatthamrong Boonsongphaisan starting at 4:30 p.m. (local time).

Thai Army Commander Prayuth Chan-ocha

The forces that seized control established a National Order Preservation Committee made up of the heads of the military and national police, headed by General Prayuth Chan-ocha.

The National Council for Public Order said the reason for taking control of the executive branch was that the current situation in Thailand had become uncontrollable, causing loss of life and property, and seriously disrupting social order and security.

The National Council for Public Order announced that it will maintain its relations with countries and international organizations as before and will continue to protect international organizations, foreign embassies in Thailand and foreigners living and studying in Thailand.

The coup in Thailand occurred after General Prayuth Chan-ocha declared martial law on May 20./.

According to VOV