Coup leaders confronted Prin Suwannathat - commander of the First Infantry Division and a classmate of Thaksin during their military academy years.

They asked him: "We have a consensus for a coup. What's your stance?"

Prin reportedly replied: "It's up to all of you."

The ARC proceeded with its plan and issued a statement announcing the coup at 10pm yesterday. It informed His Majesty the King and Privy Council President Prem Tinsulanonda.

Unit commanders loyal to Thaksin gathered at the home of Defence Minister Thamarak Isarangura to discuss possible resistance, all the while trying to negotiate with ARC leaders.

Supreme Commander General Ruengroj Mahasaranond reportedly sided initially with proThaksin forces, then switched sides.

Infantry battalions mobilised jointly from the Second Infantry Division at Prachin Buri and the elite Ninth Infantry Division at Kanchanaburi. They streamed into Bangkok within one hour.

Commandos from the Special Warfare Command - in which Sonthi served during his active career - had already entered Bangkok and were stationed at key locations.

The remaining special operations forces had been ordered on standby.

The First, Second and Third Special Operations Divisions were at three locations in Lop Buri province.

The forces that sealed off key locations - including Government House and the headquarters of the Special Branch Police - were those from the 31st Infantry Regiment (Royal Guards). Tanks and armoured personnel carriers manned checkpoints in Bangkok. Helicopters and other military "hardware" were ready for deployment.

Members of the First Cavalry Division - based in the North - has entered Bangkok and the 15th Infantry Regiment from the South is prepared to move into the capital.