Two shot to death in melee

Two people were killed when red shirt protesters raided Nang Loeng community and clashed with residents.

The dead have been identified as Pom [surname unknown], 54, and Yutthakarn Joichoichod, 18. Mr Pom was shot dead at the scene while Mr Yutthakarn was shot and died at hospital.

At least nine people were injured in the melee.The violence occurred after about 100 residents gathered to disperse red shirt protesters who raided the community, assaulted residents and destroyed property and houses.

Residents who protested drew an angry reaction from the demonstrators. About 30 red shirt protesters rode motorcycles into the community and fired several gun shots into the group of residents. They also hurled petrol bombs.

Armed red shirt protesters also chased some residents who had tried to run away. Prime Minister's Office Minister Sathit Wongnongtoey confirmed the casualties, saying protesters had fired at residents and injured several people.

The incidents followed a day-long crackdown against protesters by joint military-police forces under the state of emergency decree covering Bangkok and nearby provinces.

Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban appealed to the public to stay vigilant, as he feared red shirt protesters might plan to unleash more violence.

Protesters retreated to gather outside the gates of Government House last night.

Mr Suthep also urged the public to assist government officials and to beware of possible terrorist attacks following crackdowns on red shirt demonstrators. Arson and bombings were possible, he said.

Earlier, Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva asserted that no one died in the military operation to open traffic to the public.