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Thai police seek to defuse tensions in Bangkok

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Efforts have been made by Thai police to defuse tensions with anti-government protesters in Bangkok.


Barricades at the police and government headquarters were removed in the wake of clashes which saw the use of tear gas, rubber bullets and water cannon.


The mood in the Thai capital appeared calmer after the police move earlier today, which officials said was aimed at avoiding further confrontation, the BBC reported.


Thai prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra has rejected protesters’ demands that she step down.


She said was open to negotiations but that calls for the government to be replaced by an appointed council were illegal and unconstitutional.


The anti-government protests, which began last week, had been largely peaceful until Saturday when they became violent.


The Foreign and Commonwealth Office continues to advise British travellers to Bangkok to avoid all protests, political gatherings and demonstrations.


The Tourist Authority of Thailand (TAT) said that despite the “volatile” political situation in Bangkok, life in the Thai capital and all other areas of Thailand continues as per normal.


“Tourist attractions and activities as well as businesses in Bangkok and other provinces are open and operating as usual,” TAT said.

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