Court frees on bail an anti-coup leader

Eight other suspects did not file a bail request with the court, saying they wanted to remain in detention.

According to police, the remaining eight suspects will be held at the Bangkok Remand Prison.

Remaining in custody were Veera Musi-gapong, Jatuporn Phromphan, Jakrapob Penkair, Natthawut Saikua, Weng Tojirakarn, Wi-putalaeng Patanapumithai, Manit Jitchanklab and Apiwan Wiriyachai.

Jaran's lawyer told the court that Jaran is a human rights commissioner and is still engaged in heavy workload. His absence will affect the works of the work of the National Human Rights Commission, he said.

 In his motion to the court, Jaran said he was willing to stay in jail if he did not engage in the commission's works

The suspects were brought from Samsen police station where they stayed overnight at the order of the Criminal Court. Security was tight as police feared supporters of the nine campaigners may use violence to create more disturbances.

Some 50 anti-coup supporters gathered in front of the court through out the day to show moral support to the suspects.

Police have asked the court to allow them to extend detention of the group to be until July 26 until further questioning could be completed.

The Court was told that the investigation into the violence on July 22 in front Privy Councillor Prem Tinsulanond required more time as there plenty of witnesses and evidences.

Meanwhile, Pol Maj Gen Jaet Mongkonhati, the chief investigator, said that there could possibly be more arrest of the anti-coup protest.

He refused to identify who or how many more suspects to be arrested.