Security for cremation ceremony to be tightened

Security measures will be tightened throughout the Royal Cremation Ceremony from Oct 25 to 29 after intelligence reports emerged of a plan by certain groups to create disturbances during the historic event.

Deputy Prime Minister Gen Prawit Wongsuwan said the government expected about 250,000 people would attend the ceremony for the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who passed away a year ago.

"I am concerned that things could happen such as disturbances or resistance by certain groups," he told the media after chairing a meeting on the preparation for the ceremony at the Defence Ministry here, today.

Prawit, who is also the Defence Minister and minister responsible for internal affairs, said security officials will be on the guard during the ceremony to repel any attempts to stir trouble .

The government which has planned the event since a year ago, will deploy up to 70,000 security personnel and volunteers to ensure the important event proceeds without any hitch.

The ceremony will be held at Sanam Luang, near the majestic Grand Place.

-- BERNAMA