Thai forces descend on central Bangkok to stifle coup protests

2014-06-01 343

Thousands of soldiers and police were out on the streets of Bangkok on Sunday

They were on orders from Thailand's military rulers to stop any demonstrations against their seizure of power

Some train stations and shopping malls were shut as part of the crackdown after activists spoke of a big weekend show of opposition.

(SOUNDBITE) (Thai) DEPUTY POLICE CHIEF SOMYOT POOMPANMOUNG SAYING:

"We'll check everybody to prevent the protesters coming into the area. The BTS, skytrain, will not stop in three stations downtown. The skywalk above is also closed and we're not allowing anyone to commute until the situation is resolved."

What protests did take place were small and sporadic

Military leader, General Prayuth Chan-Ocha, says the country will need at least a year for reforms to kick in before elections can be held.