Balls boost security at Democrats' HQ

Party director Nattapol Theepsuwan, said the so-called Elide fire extinguishing balls weigh one kilogram each, and can put out a blaze within 3-10 seconds of reaching the fire's source.

The balls were installed in the offices of Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, party chief advisor Chuan Leekpai, Secretary-General Suthep Thaugsuban and all party deputy leaders including the party reporters' room.

Meanwhile, 20 red-shirt men gathered outside the Democrat Party to protest against PM's Office Minister Sathit Wongnongteoy and his plan to close community radio stations and websites that convey messages viewed as insulting to the monarchy.

The protesters also attacked the government for appointing People's Alliance for Democracy leaders, such as Kasit Pirom as foreign minister, and others as ministry advisers - accusing them of involvement in the siege of airports and Government House.

The protest was non-violent and the red-shirts dispersed after Nattapol accepted their complaints lodged with the party.