Riots keep Thai embassy in Yangon closed
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Riots keep Thai embassy in Yangon closed

The Thai embassy in Yangon has extended its closure over security concerns for its staff and Thai nationals after protests which started late last month against the Koh Tao verdict.

The embassy says the protests could cause trouble for visitors, so it has decided keep its doors closed until this Monday.

The embassy earlier planned to open Monday after it was closed since a week before year's end due to the protests in Myanmar against the Thai court verdict.

The Samui Provincial Court recently handed down death sentences to Myanmar migrant workers Zaw Lin and Win Zaw Htun, both 22, after finding them guilty of raping and murdering Hannah Witheridge, 23, and killing David Miller, 24, on the southern island of Koh Tao in September last year.

The protests spread to several areas, including in front of the embassy.

The embassy said it would only provide urgent visa services on a case-by-case basis while it is closed. Foreign Ministry Don Pramudwinai said closing the services of the embassy amid protest action is normal practice.

If it had stayed open in this situation, it could would allow ill-intentioned people to enter the embassy which could create further problems.

Protests began in Yangon within hours of the Samui court's verdict to condemn two Myanmar citizens for the 2014 murders of two British tourists at Koh Tao. (AP photo)

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