Thailand Declares Martial Law

From the BBC:

Thailand army declares martial law

20 May 2014

The Thai military has imposed martial law amid a political crisis "to preserve law and order", but says the surprise move is not a coup.

In response, the acting prime minister urged the army to act "under the constitution" and "with no violence".

Soldiers have taken over TV and radio stations, and blocked off roads in the capital, Bangkok.

Martial law comes after months of escalating tensions between the government and the opposition. 

Correspondents say the move could enrage supporters of the government, especially if it is seen as amounting to a coup. The army has staged at least 11 coups since the end of the absolute monarchy in 1932....

More - with background - here.