Thai police to step up action to stop protest rallies

Thai police are stepping up measures to stop a mass pro-democracy rally called for Friday in the center of Bangkok. They've set up roadblocks with barriers and razor wire to block access to the busy road junction that was the location on Thursday for thousands of protestors to gather to press their demands for sweeping political change, despite a government emergency decree.

At a news conference in Bangkok, police spokesperson Major-General Yingyos Thepjumnong said they would increase their steps in accordance with the law.

"The important message to protesters is you absolutely cannot hold a rally. You cannot hold the rally," he said.

The protestors want the Prime Minister to resign, fresh elections and a new constitution. They also want reform of the monarchy, a highly sensitive demand in a country where the royal institution is traditionally revered and seen as above criticism.

(Image Credits: AP)