Govt plays down threat to PM, beefs up security
The government yesterday played down news of a plot to "harm" caretaker Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, saying it was just misinformation meant to inflict more disgrace on the country.
However, security around the premier was reportedly beefed up. "The prime minister said he isn't afraid of danger, but he wouldn't overlook the rumour," government spokesman Surapong Suebwonglee said. Caretaker Interior Minister Kongsak Wantana said police were investigating reports of a conspiracy brewing, but he believed they were spread by a group of people who wanted to create chaos in the country. "The media should double check before publishing this kind of report," Kongsak said. Caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Chidchai Vanasatidya also dismissed reports that security for Thaksin had been increased. Army chief General Sondhi Boonyaratkalin declined to confirm whether a plot against Thaksin had been uncovered, but said it was the military's job to protect the prime minister. "Reports are reports and they require everyone to be concerned about exercising more caution," he said. "If the government wants the Army to support them, it is the obligation of the Army to do so." An Army general close to the National Security Council said on condition of anonymity that the number of secret service agents accompanying Thaksin had been increased from the usual 12 to 30. Thaksin had also hired 10 bodyguards to protect his family, the general said.
The Nation, Associated Press
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