Thai political activist shot and wounded

A prominent Thai political activist was shot and wounded a day after a state of emergency was declared in Bangkok.

Police official Col. Kovit Charionwattanasak said, Kwanchai Praipana, a local leader of the pro-government “red-shirt” movement was shot by unidentified people in a pick-up truck.

The incident took place outside his home in Udon province in northeastern Thailand.

The wounds however, were not life-threatening.

Police suspect that the shooting may be politically motivated, but haven’t ruled out any “personal conflicts” faced by Kwanchai.

Tensions in Thailand is suspected to increase caused by the attack. Demonstrations against former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatrahave increased in the past week by attacks with explosives which killed one person and wounding dozens.

Following the attack a 60 day state of emergency decree was imposed which took effect on Wednesday.

The decree gives officials the power to impose curfews, detain suspects without charge, censor media, ban political gatherings of more than five people and declare parts of the capital off-limits.