Sakhon Nakhon and Others Added To Emergency Decree...

The media tells us that Sakhon Nakhon and a dozen or so others have been added to the list under the Emergency Decree. Just what does that mean? Are there troop movements or companies of police in the provinces now that were not there before? What does it mean for foreign visitors or part-time residents? What about Thai locals? The foreign press made a big deal over it. Is it?

Udon is under the same decree......we were downtown yesterday, shopping, ate, all looked normal. A few cops were stopping motorcycles (as is normal) in the city, but didn't see any traffic checks on the highway going to Loei/Nongbualamphu......maybe there were some on the way to KK.
The areas covered under the decree are largely red-shirt areas....for example, last time in Sakhon Nakhon, I saw quite a few posters alongside the highway with the village politician's arms wrapped over the shoulder of Taksin. I've seen the same near Nongwahsaw. That's a pretty good hint that the area is probably a red-shirt area.
I'd say, more than anything, the Emergency Decree is a word of warning to the falang community to keep your eyes posted for any sort of gathering/trouble. If you see any, I'd advise staying away. And it probably wouldn't be wise to go flaunting that new red shirt you just bought.

For now, all's peaceful in Udon......but being Thailand.......anything is possible.

Thanks, Parrot, we were curious as to whether troops had gathered and set up check-points and such. Maybe most of the troops have been deployed to Bangkok. Whatever the case, we worry about folks remaining in Udon and Sakhon.

Just to add another data point, we had some business at the Bangkok Bank Main branch today. No discernible change in security. No cops in sight. I had thought since the bombings of other BKK Bank offices there would at least be a BIB skulking around, but no. Then our travels took us past Tungsi Muang. Bunch of pickups in the shade and about 30 or so red shirt types milling around, a few chatting amiably with 3 or 4 police. All looked quite relaxed. So all is well in Udon ..... so far. let's hope it stays that way, but vigilance is still warranted.

luangtom wrote:The media tells us that Sakhon Nakhon and a dozen or so others have been added to the list under the Emergency Decree. Just what does that mean? Are there troop movements or companies of police in the provinces now that were not there before? What does it mean for foreign visitors or part-time residents? What about Thai locals? The foreign press made a big deal over it. Is it?

From an email sent to subscribers by American Citizen Services at US Embassy in Bangkok yesterday:

A state of emergency gives the police and military increased powers to
maintain public order. Specifically, security forces have the authority
to:

-prohibit gatherings of more than five people;
-prohibit distribution of media or publications deemed to affect
security or public order;
-prohibit or limit the use of vehicles or particular routes; and
-evacuate buildings or areas or prohibit entry into them.

You should expect to see more security forces personnel in the streets.
You might encounter them at roadblocks or other security checkpoints.
If you encounter police or military personnel, you should obey any and
all instructions from them. Be sure to carry identification and proof
of your U.S. citizenship at all times to present if asked by
authorities.

Thank you for the input and information. Chok dee.

Come to peace-loving Nong Khai, where billiards leagues are still permitted (if there were any).

I think I'll go find five strangers and ... you know ... just hang out for a while.

Because we can!